Teen drummer lives his dream one beat at a time

At 16 years old, Brandon Olander is the youngest snare drummer in the Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps. But despite his age, he dreamed of becoming part of this corps with the most world championships. Jill Wagner reports.

[@vinnyhughes007]

So they're just gonna breeze over the fact that he's doing this with scoliosis???? He's a trooper. I know it's painful

[@alecfields8588]

It’s pretty common in marching percussion

[@659009stan]

2:00

[@Yesica1993]

I'm glad they did, so he's not treated as a victim!

[@tinnitusthenight5545]

Vinny just wants to vicariously feel like he has a disability so he can imagine overcoming it, is that so wrong? Yes, probably.

[@jeremymarks8228]

As a marcher with scoliosis, it isn’t that painful

[@TinyBlob12]

Drums come true. I'll leave by myself, thank you.

[@TinyBlob12]

Jshabab Abhahsh Luv u 2

[@fishsauce617]

Haha nice

[@lindaj2109]

+Fisheral savage

[@jaydonmendoza1764]

ZeTaki Z I don't get how that was savage

[@soap6072]

That was too savage

[@AnonymousYouTubeconsumer]

This kid was 16 when he attended Blue Devils in 2014. The Blue Devils scored the world record highest DCI score ever in 2014 and he was a part of that. Skill is off the charts.

[@wassup287]

Kid's doing that with scoliosis, he has to be in pain the whole time.

[@dallischu2950]

Yeah exactly. I've got scoliosis and I can't imagine having a drum hanging on my shoulders. I can barley march my trumpet through the season and it's light

[@carriesee7209]

Kids badass. Hands down.

[@zj13goat57]

Those thing are heavy as crap

[@kalebrath7427]

From personal experience it’s not very fun

[@Scareth]

@@kalebrath7427 Maybe u should change ur name considering the horrible things attached to that meme

[@svenokonomi2005]

This kid is radiating passion. I rarely see someone loving their hobby as much as Brandon.

[@crisgallardo8512]

this kid inspires me caz in my marching band the rest see me as useless and worthless and im the worst they say its sad

[@OneFingerYT]

Let's go Brandon!

[@woiowoiow190]

You haven't been out much then.

[@S0K0N0MI]

@@woiowoiow190 Bitching at an 8 year old comment, maybe you should be going out more instead..

[@1skyler026]

"He has the hands of a 21 year old"

[@kryptonsun1696]

your comment made my day

[@SamChaneyProductions]

+skyler crenshaw One beat at a time

[@jammiiee]

+Sam Chaney LOOOOOOOL

[@Drumedley]

+skyler crenshaw "HE beat out 100 other drummers".

[@neilroth6801]

+skyler crenshaw, so we need to keep our eye out for a handless 21 year old, huh?

[@noahtaylor6374]

Win or lose...*sets new highest score record*

[@opienick]

I'm over a year late, but best comment.

[@psycho_isaucyy8887]

99.65

[@Boricactuz]

@@opienick i’m over a year late but good coment

[@brotherjoshua6258]

@@Boricactuz I’m over a month late, but good comment.

[@yes-rn5sk]

im 3 years late, but best comment

[@theredwolfproject5712]

As a snare drummer I can say that preforming shows without scoliosis is gonna leave you sore the next day. I wonder how he feels after a long day of marching

[@theecstatic9686]

Fukkin busted...that's how....

[@juneyellowsnek]

Not much different.

[@blockededited8280]

Probably fantastic.

[@muffinman5741]

I am European and it's 4 am. What the hell am I doing here.

[@empyrean1696]

lol same

[@Denasdc]

High five.

[@tiagohenriques9708]

yup

[@kaihocompany]

All of our lives have lead up to this point...

[@SwishSwoosh]

Jim Knopf Holy shit me too

[@jasonhong1998]

I'm 16 right now. A junior trumpet player. Next year or the one after I plan to audition for maybe Phantom Regiment, Cavaliers, or Blue Devils. Seeing a guy make it at my age this year inspires me to work harder. I hope everyone saw something positive in this!

[@MrSouLSilk]

I REALLY wanna march Bluecoats when I get the chance

[@MrAndersonneo88]

I'm 15 right now, state qualified alto sax player in my sophmore year. I want to learn trumpet and audition for Crown when I graduate, but it seems like too much of a fucking task for people who are top of the state trumpet players with tons of marching experience..

[@fungyfrog]

*Whispers* "Do Phantom Regiment..." Cool story, the person who writes the drill for my school's marching band (Jeremy Hunt) Is actually now writing drill for Phantom Regiment. I would love to joining but seeing that I'm a clarinet player that won't work out for me as I've only ever played clarinet lol. Good luck! Hope you make it :D

[@jasonhong1998]

MrAndersonneo88 Hey if anything don't let that scare you. Most times when you learn in middle school they begin at the middle school level of expectations. As you get older, your brain has the ability to learn and do amazing things really quickly. If you don't work for your goals now you might regret it later. If you wanna learn Trumpet definitely talk to your Band Directors. Get some time to just practice. The Blue Devils did that thing where they entire wind section had a Trumpet. That was their first time with a Trumpet. And the reason they sound amazing is not cause they are naturally gifted, its because they worked their butts off. If you wanna learn Trumpet start. Right now. After reading this. the next time you go to school. Email your directors right now. Go for it!

[@jamesorthebombdotcom]

He could play all of their warm ups and music at age 12

[@mikec3260]

Hats off to this kid and any marching band member. I was never in it but watched my kid and his band mates bust rear at every practice. I felt bad for not having him in better condition prior to it starting up.

[@simplyme9700]

He’s 25 now.

[@hellohowareyou9745]

Drummer: is younger than everyone else Also drummer: *I'm going to do what's called a pro gamer move*

[@matthewdbryant6925]

That's pretty epic

[@daniel_a-ir6mc]

Unliveliness younger people are actually better because they’re able to pick things up quickly since they’re brains are more likely to remember it, hence why babies can learn multiple languages faster than adults and actually retain the majority of that knowledge for a very long time

[@hellohowareyou9745]

@@daniel_a-ir6mc You really didn't comprehend what I was saying, did you lol.

[@kitkatkid1976]

Unliveliness more like pro drummer move lol

[@arn369]

I seriously thought he was very sick and about to die so it was like a make a wish type thing because he looks so skinny from the thumbnail.

[@pokemonmaster9492]

same

[@gormygorm]

Same

[@zachdaly7071]

Arn ulfo same

[@blurpletiger410]

Arn ulfo Same!

[@writingclasstoday2271]

same!

[@cameronarmstrong617]

"Beating away on a chair"..."He has the hands of a 21 year old"..."But even though his hands could keep up, Johnson felt Brandon was too young"...WTF

[@frogert865]

"Brandon is living his dream, one beat at a time."

[@meownime5304]

The Whalens he was talking about how it sounded like they were talking about him masterbating

[@s1ckkid396]

The Whalens This is just one whole induendo

[@marlilutchman9505]

Homo Sapien lmao

[@rippspeck]

+The Whalens That, right there, is asperger's syndrome. Take note for future encounters, ladies and gentlemen.

[@charmaneayers2176]

AND HE HAS SCOLIOSIS I have minor scoliosis and wearing a snare for as little as 2 hours made me wanna cry so he gotta be in non stop pain

[@gracerutledge]

So glad my scoliosis doesn’t give me pain lol

[@charmaneayers2176]

Grace Rutledge lol u are very lucky then

[@SlayerofFiction]

Richard the Third had Scoliosis, a very severe case and died in combat, your good.

[@edwardove6463]

Hello

[@noahsoto6905]

“Win or lose” as they proceed to get the highest score in dci history 😂

[@DantheMan-mk2lv]

Puberty hit that boy like a train

[@samsignorelli]

Saw a pic of him at auditions this weekend...full beard now.

[@quartratic2389]

His voice changed and face aged, but he's still 5"2.

[@nicolabatley8664]

DantheMan yh pubaty probably hut you hard as well that's why your not on TV or theatre or you tube your just a Facebook rejecte

[@lorenalara4987]

It hit him like a DRUM

[@samclub7101]

DantheMan dude Ik I saw him in San Antonio this summer and looks so much older

[@potnoodles4life171]

"was beating away on a chair" xD

[@LernestW]

Haha missed that

[@wheetbread1]

and has the hands of a 21 year old

[@radientsyt8954]

+Scott Terrones lol

[@cameronarmstrong617]

+ben brewer my exact thought XD

[@TheGoldenKaren]

😂😂😂😂 I literally just laughed out loud

[@OvunixClashRoyale]

2019 performers showcase, 5 years later, has to see him go ;(

[@evasmojang]

wym

[@OvunixClashRoyale]

he had a performaers showcase and he aged out of the bluedeilvs so he cant march anymore

[@dabirdie1797]

@@OvunixClashRoyale itll suck not seeing him next summer

[@OvunixClashRoyale]

Le Person ikr

[@jessica5573]

he aged out 😔

[@pixellee6955]

It doesn't matter how long we live. This kid has an incredible passion. I hope his back heals so he can perform more.

[@MugiwaraCarat]

"win or loose"... breaks world record instead 99.65 holy fucking shit

[@asamartin1272]

The Blue Devils marched on MY HIGH SCHOOL FIELD!!! Their performance was *amazing*, but I can appreciate it more because I understand how hard it is. Im a 13 year old freshman Varsity trombone (I skipped a grade). I found it kind of funny how they seemed surprised how someone on drum line would have a heart rate and breathing rate of a sprinter, because we're walking around (many times running) and we ave to play an instrument. It's brutal. I have an unhealthy addiction to it lol

[@devynfosmire137]

Asa Martin as a marching band memeber myself I'm curious on how you guys have varsity

[@keywizzle6708]

Asa Martin Bluecoats performed at my school not too long ago

[@bryanbutora429]

what school? this year?

[@DarkWaWeeGee]

Anyone who can keep up with the physical demand marching band requires is addicted to it. As long as you can keep up with it, it's an experience you'll always remember.

[@jessejesse7917]

Oh shut up you play trombone so you don’t have to crab with a drum heavier than you are stepped to your back. Sir you can put that away

[@MH5XXXX]

THE YOUNG MAN HAS TALENT AND TENACITY RO PUSH HIMSELF THRU HIS MEDICAL ISSUES TO PERFORM A GREAT SHOW. BEST WISHES ON YOUR HEALTH.

[@marycarroll2459]

Been playing drums since 1987. This kid is a natural. It took me damn near 15 years to get to this point, albeit with pretty much no instruction, but damn kid is pegging some crazy fast time signatures here.

[@YleneP]

And people say marching band is easy

[@byxtremez1831]

Ylene P. people say drumming I easy I can't even play a beat

[@YleneP]

Kirito -Kun! Me either. Which is why i stick to woodwinds.

[@byxtremez1831]

Ylene P. XD

[@rickyNoel12]

Ylene P. I'm in a MARCHING BAND and it's easy because I like doing it so I catch on quick

[@jaxius2511]

The Voluptuous I'm the best potato ocarina player in the world.. well one of the only as well LOL. I hollow out a potato and cute finger holes. Then meticulously tune it.. I use a hollow carrot tip as the mouth piece and it sounds really good!

[@alejandramojica7947]

Honestly, it makes me happy to see any drum corps(especially BDA) get recognized

[@samsignorelli]

As a BDA alum.....me too!

[@eileenchambers8808]

The determination in his eyes says it all. Fantastic

[@BEATMAN.]

I was a kid with scoliosis playing the drums I’m 34 years old years old now I think it made my back stronger

[@Quantiad]

Fine, I've watched it. Now will you STOP recommending it to me!

[@nas6132]

Same here 😂

[@scourgedarkpaw9949]

iSquared same he can drum big deal

[@IntelligentHorseworldofrandom]

+iSquared Just ignore the video! I know it’s annoying when they show up, but don’t play the video.

[@ryandavis8000]

"The physical demands rival that of athletes"? You say that as though we are not athletes.

[@eagleeyez1280]

Ryan Davis You’re not though. I understand where your heart is but this comment was dumb. You don’t see drummers at the olympics and you would most certainly never see a drummer on Sports Illustrated cover. Your logic is like saying saying a construction worker is an athlete too just because it’s physically demanding as well.

[@KawaiiCrazyMSP]

@@eagleeyez1280 Bud... Do you know how physically taxing it is to be in any marching band? You should take a step back and think about it.

[@KawaiiCrazyMSP]

@@eagleeyez1280 Official definition of an athlete: a person who is proficient in sports and other forms of physical exercise. So your comment was the dumb one, actually. You're acting as if doing a sport is the only way someone can do physical labor and be recognized for it. Edit: typo

[@gingechicken7394]

A sport is defined as anything that requires physical exertion and contains competition. DCI, judged parades, and other competitive parades. Marching band practices are about 12 hours long, other sports don't go as long. On top of that we have to memorize footsteps size, where and when to move, how yo March backwards and forwards, memorize music, and carry instruments, I play flute, which carrying parallel to the ground for 10 minutes makes your arms damn tired, and it's a light instrument. Look at the bodies of marching band members... especially drum line.

[@carsonmiller3720]

Zack Nelson you sound like one of the ignorant football players, someone who if was forced to march a mildly demanding(by band standards) show would have a heart attack

[@jenniferpiper4293]

There are precious few things in life that feel as powerful as being on a drumline! It takes so much work and practice, bruises and aches that won't quit, but one company front makes it all worth it.

[@catedawg5808]

who else got this in their recommended list 5 years later? I know I did

[@KrinchiD]

I just got the recommendation. And now I am really curious where the kid is today. I hope he was able to follow his dream.

[@Joeeetato]

@@KrinchiD yeah he did and aged out in 2019

[@yellmyname5332]

6 years

[@liamcrazygamer]

"I was just beating away on a chair" 0:41

[@DwightLivesMatter]

See what you did there 😂

[@theshoplife9527]

"He has the hands of a 21 year old"

[@Auxcii]

+The Shop Life *quiet snickering is heard in the background*

[@eelcohorstman5176]

lid d briefing 5u ui u ghkhghjgyuuuggyjj

[@chives5300]

I hate how she says the drummers are "like" athletes. Drum corps is probably one of the most physically and mentally demanding things any human being can do in their lives. They're not like athletes they are athletes!!!!

[@SomethingLotBeatsDrum]

"Thousands of practice hours" welcome to all dci and wgi participants lives.

[@SomethingLotBeatsDrum]

Not always true. I am in pit on drumset in my band. I marched bass 5 this past fall and indoor season and only had to go to pit because I tore the labrums in my hips and am in the process of many surgeries and can't march. But I, as well as a good portion of our pit is very physically active.

[@TheManyNations]

It's not really a contest between sections guys...

[@RobCartwright]

***** Front ensemble works as hard as the rest of the group in DCI and WGI.

[@TheBestTabby]

Amen!

[@Your_wingmanhere]

I am in my school’s drumline and i am probably the second shortest kid in the entire drumline, there is only 4 middle schoolers in this drumline and the rest of em are high schoolers who know a hellofalot more than us, and they are going through puberty. I relate to the pain of having these dumb straps wearing your back down even if you dont have a back problem. I can not even imagine dealing with the pain that this guy has! Thank you for inspiring me

[@mikeelu6503]

If you want to you can. This man is a inspiration to everyone who feels they can’t. Obviously it’s not easy and you may fail but you just can’t stop. I know it sounds simple talking and watching is a lot easier then doing. Don’t be afraid even if you never succeed you will be stronger and you will have proven to yourself that you tried. Takes courage and determination.

[@aaronwhite9951]

This kid has some pretty great hair.

[@levib5412]

+Aaron White I think you're missing the point here xD

[@lockdown9081]

+Levi Britton HAHAHA

[@lockdown9081]

+Aaron White HAHA

[@jasonvegan5761]

+Aaron White If you like Beiber-hair

[@aaronwhite9951]

While I don't like Justin Beiber's music, I would definitely like his hair. I'm not white so it doesn't do what I want it to.

[@chasemanhart]

How does one "pick up some old sticks" at 10 and a year later play DCI level stuff? That's just not normal, he must be great at picking up stuff like that

[@samsignorelli]

+Stormbreaker He was hanging with BD's line at 12...on show music. Scary. The fact that he 1) made BD's snare line (in itself, an accomplishment) at 16, won DCI his first year, again his 2ndm along with a Sanford and an I&E title really doesn't surprise many. A lot of my fellow BD alums saw it coming...he's just that good.

[@chasemanhart]

true, but without some sort of guide or teacher or someone to first show him what to do, i feel like its impossible to get started

[@samsignorelli]

Stormbreaker I;ll give you that....I don't know who he was studying with in Arizona. Hr got a year with Academy under his belt in '13

[@Spillage66]

+Stormbreaker He looks Japanese, so it's probably an instinct! HAHA!

[@Spillage66]

***** I was, of course, being sarcastic towards the general American consensus that "Asian" people are better at everything than anyone else, hence the, "HAHA!" at the end on fmy post. I've been drumming for nearly 30 years, so I do know natural percussive talent when I see it. I hope that's cleared a few things up for you.

[@KickMe1177]

Awesome man. Fulfilling a dream that you had been working on for so long is a rare feat. You stuck with it and it paid off.

[@kobusdutoitbosman6240]

...this flawless performance is SO exhillerating - nada NADA words can describe : WELL DONE!

[@RaceHawaii]

Beating away on a chair. We've all been there kid

[@matthewsherwin1306]

+RaceHawaii SAAMMMEEEEEE..........

[@alexsoto9285]

😂😂😂😂😂 totally

[@luisshorts303]

i used my couch

[@znasdajelec]

Dorian C Watch Ariunsanaa say wtf is masturbaiting?

[@BoboDoboRobo]

but can he do it on a cold rainy night in stoke?

[@alekosthecrow]

yes

[@TheCampingGoat]

Hahahahaha

[@vro21]

BoboDoboRobo

[@aer6957]

BoboDoboRobo lmao I'm dead XD this made my day

[@origamikid2299]

But can he do it on a cold rainy night in Aberdeen?

[@awesomekoga7848]

What Brandon has done is awesome & epic. I honestly had no idea it was so difficult to drum. All I seen it as was a way to use up energy. I’m so glad they mentioned how much stamina it takes. Kudos to Brandon for performing above & beyond. 💜💕❤️🙏🌈

[@WillAustin]

Hats off to this guy, what an amazing story! My son did this in 2016 at the age of 14 (trumpet). Drum Corps is tougher than any sport I ever played by a wide margin. Blue Devils, Cascades and Cavaliers were my faves, just incredible.

[@patrickguyum]

"DCI Members are the worlds top musical athletes"

[@MrSouLSilk]

Take out the word musical and the phrase is still correct xD

[@thatbandgirl2535]

Hell yes take out the world musical because we already know that but it will be even more true without that word

[@qtip9673]

I honestly want all my non-band friends who say "marching band isn't a sport" to try this. Honestly we do more work that our football team so how can you classify football as a sport but not us? They just run around tackling each other. They have to have muscle and good running skills. We have to march at any given tempo whilst keeping in time with good technique (no, it is not the same as walking -.-), counting to ourselves, keeping good posture, hold up our instruments, or drumsticks (keeping in mind how heavy those drums are on you back and the bruises you get from the harnesses), while breathing you're also pushing air out and keeping technique. And don't forget we have to have our music memorized the list can go on and on. It's just a sport.

[@bobbymayyy]

It's actually pretty interesting, our football team sucks so bad, the band is the most celebrated thing at my school

[@qtip9673]

Here, our team football team sucks and our band is under-appreciated -_- I feel we're getting more of the recognition we deserve lately though

[@kikikokopuff8354]

Our football team sucked and got into the playoffs and lost the first game. Yet they're praised and our band is being called the worst band and that our rival school band is better. IS THEIR BAND DOING THE FEILD SHOW COMPETITION?! NO. I DONT THINK SO!!

[@LtPeeWeeHerman]

Kira Almos Be greatful your team is in the playoffs

[@garmogarmo4893]

Our band is undefeated for like 3 or 5 years in a row. havnt lost one ompitiion or championship for that many years :) Were the best thing at my school, and work the hardest. No one likes us but our football team loves us and at lunch more than half the band and football team chill out :)

[@tiphaineluccy3795]

Drums are fun. Awesome video. Thanks lots for sharing. 😊

[@linzmcd4485]

OMG. He picked up drum sticks at 10 and a year later is stunning that professional!

[@saltylemon4436]

"physical demands rival that of athletes." No shit try keeping time, knowing where you're supposed to be at the right time and adapting to your surroundings if things don't go exactly as planned all while carrying a bowling ball on your shoulders.

[@fermiLiquidDrinker]

Drumming, as to quote Neil Peart "...is like trying to run a 16k marathon and solve the most equations in the world at the same time."

[@gormygorm]

Being in a drumline, I can say that you use your feet to keep time, you have to have the music memorized when you are marching playing it, and if you play Bass 4, like myself, you cannot see in front of you. With that being said, you are now marching on a football field, under those lights, with the pressure of who knows how many people watching you. Now the harness that holds the drum on you, it has a pad that kinda presses against your shoulder blade, and the drum hooks onto the front of the harness. Also... don't trip or you will break a few ribs, and the drum. Also, with the harness, it is kinda difficult to turn your head.

[@Blitz_Spencer]

Salty Lemon More like 3-5 if you're a bass drum.

[@bmgoff2011]

Not to mention the mental demands

[@kojtel]

Why was this in my recommended?

[@MCfarmer672]

Kermit 100th like is mine

[@zengara11]

youtube fcked my recommended up. They want the money to go to the wrong once :/

[@ItsNikoHIMself]

Because you have the hands of a 21 years old.

[@yesitsyas4713]

because, scoliosis?

[@stoner27th]

because he beats stuffs with his hands?

[@SarahStuido]

Marching band is. The. Best. Thing. Ever.

[@subscriberswithvideoscha-kz9cq]

one of the most painful too

[@earlviney5212]

Get into drum and bugle corps and you wont think marching band is the best thing ever.

[@antoniovina24]

challenges painful but you get used to it

[@goofverdinus165]

its kinda dorky to be honest

[@roxannecline7536]

@@earlviney5212 I was in a drum and bugle corp years and years ago - it makes high school marching band seem like play time. The style in my time was military. Such hard work and so much fun. I wouldn't trade those memories for anything.

[@terryhomman141]

Brandon you make Arizona proud. You have such talent. You can do this and anything you desire.

[@Junkman2008]

Wow, I saw that kid years ago and wondered what happened to him. Man, it's good to see a dream come true!

[@samsignorelli]

2 rings in 3 years....highest overall score ever...I&E title...high drums....took last year off for school, but is up at auditions this weekend. Has a beard now, but still has that baby face. Hopefully he has a little more meat on him to help stabilize his spine.

[@seanhopp4815]

Junkman2000 iiii

[@finwhite1392]

BRO

[@kendrickugalde1686]

he is 21 in the 2019 summer

[@mathew_chank]

Junkman2000 e

[@petermasci1728]

Damn right it's like a sport. MARCHING BAND IS A SPORT

[@ash8301]

AMEN!!!! I am in marching band and I play flute for marching band and percussion for concert band

[@bubba6755]

Nope

[@Eiest]

looooool

[@onlineprofile7585]

Gacha Friends it’s not

[@Eryus]

Technically yes. It lines up with the definition nicely. “An activity involving physical exertion and skill that is governed by a set of rules or customs and often undertaken competitively.”

[@danielrus7117]

Nice to know there are people in this world really making it happen with such passion! Keep it up people!

[@animalover608]

I have scoliosis too. Congratulations Brandon! Keep doing what you love man

[@bonetonelord]

The Blue Devils won and set a new high score record of 99.65(scores are out of 100, 40 General Effect, 30 Visual, 30 Music) beating the previous record of 99.15 held by the 2002 Cavaliers and 2005 Cadets and getting perfect GE and Visual scores.

[@MrAndersonneo88]

I still think crown's sound from 2013 is more impressive than the visual perfect score of BD this year. Just my opinion, however.

[@bonetonelord]

MrAndersonneo88 I like Crown better than BD too, but they're both good. I also think Crown's drill this year was vastly better than BD's, as they actually moved at rather high speeds almost the entire time, whereas BD tended to stand fast while playing. However, my comment was merely reporting the actual scores awarded to BD, not whether they deserved them or whether a different corps was more impressive.

[@higgsbacon1341]

This years scores were such bull shit. It's made me realize scores really don't mean crap, and what matters is the performance you put out. Screw the judges

[@newman771]

I honestly think they didn't deserve such a high score, because what the judges are basically saying is that it was a perfect show all around. If you actually watch the finals show you could easily see mistakes here and there. I'm not saying that they didn't do great but to get a score of almost 100 now that is just insane.

[@dozer1642]

When I was 16 I was one beat away from blindness.

[@gm836]

Dozer1642 what do you mean

[@tiagriffin8605]

lmao I get what he's saying

[@Blue-cr5ym]

I don't even know what to say

[@iamdavid2372]

Why'd I understand that so quickly

[@stephanieclark4848]

I have loved watching DCI - especially the Blue Devils - for at least 25 years! Brandon is PHENOMENAL! I can't imagine that kind of talent & tenacity.... and having scoliosis! God bless his talent.... and health! Thankful I got to see him perform!

[@kathe.o.]

Devine providence he will be able to live out his dream into college & beyond. GOD BLESS Brandon, keep a positive attitude.

[@NiccoleT]

To all the people that are saying that this doesn't prove high school marching band is hard because this is DCI, think of it like this: DCI is the professional version of marching band. Just like NFL is professional football, NBA is professional basketball, etc. Now professional football teams practice a lot right? High school football teams practice a lot too right? But while high school football is still a lot of hard work, professional football is way more hard work, time and dedication. We can all agree on that right? Marching band is the exact same way. DCI is our professional sport, and they put in a lot more time and dedication than we do, but does that mean that we dont work our butts off? No! We work just as hard, if not harder, than any high school football team around.

[@NoName-yq2jn]

Honestly, I completely agree with you. Unfortunately, I come from a small school with little money. All that money goes to football and soccer and basketball, but not us. We only have over 100 kids in our HS band, and only about 40 kids play an wind instrument. 19 of us are in the drumline. The rest is bandfront. In the history of our new high school (1980s or 1990s I think), we've only gotten 3 different sets of drums due to lack of funds to drumline. Does that mean we are going slack off and do less because the harnesses are complete shit? Absolutely not. We still keep good posture, play with good rudiments and articulation, and get to our spots on time. Luckily we got new drums last year, so they don't hurt as much, and we can run faster and do even more than we could before. I just wish that everyone in our band would actually do the same as us in drumline, they don't show as much dedication (I'm not saying that everyone else doesn't). That's one thing I hate about High School bands. Anyone can sign up here, and our director will take them. In DCI, you pay money to go to camp, and you are likely not going to be able to beat everyone out. You have to be completely dedicated.

[@saladofdoom42]

Exactly.

[@xdOceanic15]

Did i just saw overboardhumor?

[@TheDeathmail]

I, a tenor player myself, wrestled with my school's football team members, and my little brother's band kids actually were able to throw around the football players... and many of them were either buff or fat... and my little bro (who played Sax) threw a 400lb football player...

[@Xpert.Doge.]

I’m not saying y’all don’t work hard and this is entirely my opinion i think sports such as football require more dedication mental strength and physical perseverance than band requires and I know band is by no mean a walk in the park but I certainly do not believe that it’s harder in any way compared to football

[@jig7810]

" I took the drumsticks and started beating away on a chair"....

[@not__ray9977]

THEGR3ATDVAKIIN 135 noooooooo😂😂😂

[@Grumpycat95]

Dude 😂, I bet he thougt about this and regrets his words

[@hertzer2000]

Damn, you guys are dicks...*giggles a little bit*

[@Sorhii]

"He has the hands of a 21 year old!" kek

[@aidenmcdaniel4641]

One hundred gallons I mean beat per minute

[@calendar7143]

This man said “a little talent” lol

[@drjimbo1357]

I mean he also said a lot of hard work, some people define talent as like you're naturally good at something. I feel like he was naturally good but the amount of times he practiced is probably insane. Also, DCI is grueling in the hours of practice you have to clock in.

[@brianwene1982]

So inspiring! Thank you CBS for doing this story.

[@isaaccharamuga3698]

See's Thumbnail: Oh cool a kid got into his dream drumline! Watches Video : Wait, he got into the Blue Devils, I thought you had to be a cyborg to get in...

[@samsignorelli]

Nah....we're just regular guys. I got lucky when I made the brass line in 84...I highly doubt I'd get a callback today even if i was at the peak of my abilities.

[@coolHawk_]

Heh, what’s to say that he isn’t?

[@samsignorelli]

@@coolHawk_ A cyborg wouldn't have scoliosis....

[@SnowUltra]

@@samsignorelli thats exactly what a cyborg would want you to think

[@samsignorelli]

@@SnowUltra "Presenting their 2020 program 'Covid,' Drum Corps Intl. is proud to present, the Skynet Cadets!"

[@Peaceful_Gojira]

You go Brandon....don't let your dreams be memes, let your dreams be realz....

[@thepatsfan2950]

No let your dreams be memes

[@asiros96]

real*

[@DJCompl3x1]

Let’s go Brandon lol

[@dangerdingo2962]

Saw him at a highschool comp where he was a tech, got to say its one of the coolest nights of my life

[@mikeconklin1567]

I marched from 1964-1975 Drum Corps was a special place for me and my friends

[@pingasatchi9247]

It's great to see that someone with scoliosis can achieve such great things and inspire others to do the same. I have scoliosis and am in my high school marching band as a baritone, and I'll be getting spinal fusion surgery this June. I hope that even after my surgery I can work as hard as him.

[@fenderfan1183]

I have scoliosis as well. I play guitar which is ten pounds constantly bearing down on my shoulders and back. I can only imagine what you go through. Good luck with the surgery!

[@jessie9397]

same, although I unfortunately found out when I had to jump out of a parade that I was playing the quads in and ended getting a muscle spasm. I've switched back to upper bass but he still inspires me to try my hardest.

[@1023Endurance]

+Pingasatchi nobody cares

[@fenderfan1183]

+George Bush They're pretty light, but having severe scoliosis with ten pounds on your back hurts quite a bit. I play for at least 3-4 hours (mostly standing up) and it really starts to get to you. I have to get adjustments two times a week just to keep everything some what alright.

[@georgebush8226]

Don't get me wrong, marching a drum gets heavy after a while, no matter what it is, However, that comes with the job

[@skygaming71]

0:42 "beating away on a chair" holy fuck I'm dying

[@timothyleon558]

Props to an amazing young man and talent! We all should be so gifted in how we pursue our dreams.

[@TheLawVGHS]

"he has the hands of a 21 year old" probably won't age well

[@ThatguyLP]

💀

[@konyeeast168]

"Beating away on a chair" 😂😂

[@radientsyt8954]

hands of a 21 year old

[@plow9719]

lolz

[@nousername3004]

Clorox Bleach i am the real bleach

[@CloroxBleach-ps1hg]

Drink me no, I AM FIGHT TO THE DEATH I'm left tho (ง •̀_•́)ง ᕦ(ò_óˇ)ᕤ

[@MRKstudioslel]

pls im crying :'D

[@polikwaptiwache397]

This young man showed that you can live out your dream if you do the work and have motivation and determination to succeed... GREAT JOB....

[@qmoyer]

Bruh why they recommend this video to me as soon as the Olander era is over

[@TheDreRock]

IKR

[@karlgrissons3197]

People always looked down on performance like this or cheerleading as "I can do that, too", but once they did it themself, they got exhausted as quick as a flash.

[@freshlove7926]

Karl Grissons - i can do you wink wink 😃😃😘😉😉

[@samsignorelli]

"Sure you think it's easy. Here, put on these tenors and stay in step/carry this marching tuba in playing position and dress the form to your left/throw a 6 with this rifle and don't give yourself a concussion. You did it? Great....now do it on the move."

[@likeabossftwboyee]

"Oxygen intake like marathon runners" WHAT ABOUT THE BRASS AND THE WOODWINDS!!!!

[@Zhire]

dey never put the breath marks on my music i cri

[@likeabossftwboyee]

Zhire liek if u want breath mrks sO u don't dye

[@evilclownattack]

The woodwinds aren't even close since they're sitting at home instead of being in DCI

[@myprofilepicisbetter2573]

Cardenal Collins i know i collapsed during our marching practice we had to run while playing jungle bells and if we failed we would have to do it again

[@sarahalvarado5206]

Cause they can't measure it because they're playing

[@mrbillhicks]

Gotta Hand it to him....

[@4TheRecord]

No need to get all hands on

[@goodlordchris]

ill give you a hand thinking of another pun

[@Soeales]

We need to stop with these jokes guys. All hands on deck

[@4TheRecord]

Soel Joeles, you spelt dick wrong.

[@milaa0549]

I understand him I have the same thing. I pray that he is okay and takes breaks and lays down. Sending my love💜💜

[@michaelbracken5049]

I’m proud of this guy. I don’t know him but still proud of him

[@sarahbecker4649]

I'm so happy for this kid. Keep living your dream Brandon, if you've made it this far this early in life who knows where you could end up throughout the next several years.

[@tripper1134]

Not my tempo.

[@michaelkawamura9296]

Gotta love that whiplash reference.

[@tripper1134]

I fell in love with that movie! Hats off to the director.

[@ajthethanondorf2536]

Tripper113 are you rushing or are you dragging?

[@stacedavenport5384]

+xVIOLENCEISTHEANSWERrx rufs2

[@Test-ri2kr]

Tripper113 "Not quite my tempo" Fav quote from whiplash lol

[@rainaliao8513]

who's here after his ageout

[@jdtheoriginalg8521]

Me

[@actuallyjewish9305]

Everyone who sees this comment

[@TheMrHashi]

Not me... yet😂

[@TheMrHashi]

Xeino je aged out last season.

[@OIF2Medic]

@Xeino I marched back in the 80's with the Royal Grenadiers, competed against the Blue Devils, Phantom Regiment, Santa Clara Vanguard, Bayonne Bridgemen and so many others. The day you turn 21 you are aged out, even if it is mid season.

[@etau]

Man just to think I was watching this when I was 7 years old thinking “man I wanna grow up to this guy” and now I’m 12 and he is aging out.

[@juicifynpurifyyt1067]

"He has the hands of a 21 year old" 1:19 😂

[@andrewrushton1046]

Nicholas West I'm glad I'm not the only one that heard that lol

[@cupiddelocke1813]

What did he actually say?

[@banjojackson2]

r/shitamericanssay

[@TheDreRock]

When you're too much of a band geek to understand the joke and just agree that he does indeed have the hands of a 21 year old

[@MiraDaWulf]

Giggity

[@pambelote7353]

The quads drummer featured in the ISU study is my nephew Jordan who marched with the Cavaliers for 3 years...still love their James Bond show today.

[@JQuoix]

I remember seeing it on one of the DCI ESPN broadcasts from one of those years!

[@pabloflores5031]

Dis is an amazing story I am happy 4 this young man sticking to the process of success and chasing his dreams

[@ms.krueger2660]

And with no shirt on. 😱Even more of himself is shown. He is an amazing young man. This is what I have always told my sons. Don’t worry about what other people think!! Get out there and Do your best!!❤️😎⭐️

[@janewang1533]

i loved how the narrator was like " win or lose brandon is living his dream".... they set a new high score record!

[@maxsimes]

lol in fact there are few people who *dont* have scoliosis. looking at him i can say with confidence that he wont have any problem with it

[@get_your_mood_right_]

lol, I thought that was pretty funny too. It's kinda unrelated and unnecessary, I would have lost it if they also said "he is also mildly flatfooted and has a gluten intolerance"

[@skateruwu]

Forgot about this guy for years until now. Always looked up to that little dude as a percussionist

[@straypaws6339]

Goodness, I’ve been marching for color guard almost my entire high school career and it’s my DREAM to get into DCI guard. This kid is so lucky to get this opportunity at his age. DCI is the NFL of marching band, so you can imagine the skill it takes in all sections to even have a chance of getting in. Not to mention the thousands of dollars you pay in entrance fees, housing, equipment upkeep, etc.

[@derockn00]

My instructor once said chicago symphony on top(upper body) and olympic runner on the bottom(lower body)

[@edwardssistershands]

Respect to the Blue Devils' coach and his decision that Brandon was too young. Most people are so determined, to have the best, that they will not consider the affect on others.

[@F3ND1MUS]

Your capacity for generosity knows no bounds.

[@DivineSeedling]

What a kid, man. Living my literal dream!

[@jams4087]

"hands of a 21 year old" "beating away on a chair" :thinking:

[@brendenstahl2878]

🤔🤔🤔🤔🤔

[@iallacisneros5492]

Oh my

[@lilyona2900]

{Dirty mind activated}

[@astonished-scout]

"what's that white stuff on the chair?"

[@audioboomstore5667]

I’m so proud of him and I don’t even know him.

[@carriemckay4129]

This kid is my life roll model

[@mikebike3047]

You beat me to it...

[@magnumjade45]

Mike Bike dude you plAY dota 2?

[@b.l.8611]

You are Awesome Brandon. Keep it up, and follow your drumming dreams!

[@beakidhero]

A very inspiring video. Good job Brandon!