Add another former DCI top 12 corps back to the drum corps ranks. The Magic of Orlando Drum and Bugle Corps announced it will return to full DCI junior corps competition in 2002, as planned, for the first time since 1999. The corps purchased a complete set of Bb Dynasty horns to go with a full endorsement of Dynasty drums.

Gino Cipriani, The Cadets' brass caption head in 2001, has resigned to take the top position with Magic. Cipriani is well known for his work with the Blue Devils, Cadets and Brigadiers. Tom Santino and Ben Harloff will also instruct the brass line.

The corps has also hired the Blue Devils design team to arrange its music. Wayne Downey, Devils Brass Arranger, will arrange the charts for Magic. Dave Glyde and Jeff Lee will arrange Magic's battery and pit book, respectively. Scott Johnson, BD Percussion Caption Head, will be a consultant. Michael Cesario, former PBS telecast commentator, will also consult. Cesario will design the corps' new uniforms. Cesario designed the current Cavaliers and Devils uniforms.

John Campese will be the percussion caption head and Mike Schilaba will be the snare tech. Tom Hurst will also instruct the percussion. Michele Owens, daughter of Magic Director Rod Owens, will head up the guard.

"Magic Audition/Open House Weekend will be held November 30, December 1 and 2," said Rod Owens, corps director. "Auditions will be held in person at our audition camp, however we always welcome audition tapes from interested students around the world," Owens said.

Owens said the corps is still in the process of hiring staff members and getting full finances in order. Micro Magic, the mini-corps that toured DCI this summer to set up the corps' full return, will tour Japan for seven days beginning October 3. Micro Magic has been invited to perform at the 2001 "Marching in Okayama International Festival" in Okayama, Japan.

The mini-corps will perform at the opening and closing ceremonies for the drum corps championships on October 8. In addition, they'll perform for the city of Okayama, tour co-sponsor, October 5-7. Orlando mayor Glenda Hood has declared October "Magic of Orlando Month" and named Micro Magic as official city ambassadors for their Japan trip. The DEG/Dynasty Corporation is also a sponsor.

The tour will include sightseeing trips for the entire group to visit and learn more about the cultural experience of Japan. Watch the new and improved drumcorpsworld.com for the latest updates on Magic and other top corps!

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