2011 Prospective Member Information

What is Chops, Inc.?

Chops, Inc. is an all-age Drum and Bugle Corps based in Minneapolis, MN.

Chops’ mission is to provide a summer learning opportunity to individuals interested in music and performance through membership in a high quality, respected, and professional drum and bugle corps organization. Chops emphasizes character, social development, leadership, self-discipline, and the pursuit of musical excellence to its membership in all avenues of the organization and works to create the most positive learning experience possible for its members.

The corps is comprised of three sections: the horn line, drum line (front line percussion and marching battery) and color guard. These sections are also known as: Top Chops Brass Line, Chopstix Percussion, and Hot Chops Color Guard.

Who Joins Chops, Inc.?

Chops consists of performing members, esteemed staff, and volunteers from all over Minnesota and beyond. Members are college/high school students, junior corps alumni, as well as working professionals and music enthusiasts. Though many members are top level performers, there is a place for you even if you have limited experience.

March Parades!

Chops has three popular parade units that march from the end of May until the beginning of July: Chopstix Percussion, Top Chops Brass Line, and Hot Chops Color Guard. All three groups march independent of each other, putting friendly, fun performances on the streets of Minnesota cities.

March Field Shows!

In 2011, Chops, Inc. Drum & Bugle Corps is celebrating their 20th anniversary with the goal of competing in the Drum Corps Associates (DCA) Open Class Finals. The 2011 field show, “Be Yourself, the the Spirit of Chops”, is a journey through the history of Chops with an eye on the future.

Chops will perform in regional field show competitions starting in late July and culminating at the DCA World Championships in Rochester, NY over Labor Day weekend.

Rehearse Locally, Perform Nationally

Chops performs for thousands of people each year at parades and field show competitions. Most performances are within an hour’s drive of the Twin Cities Metro Area, along with some excursions further out into the Midwest and the DCA World Championships in Rochester, NY.

All rehearsals are held in the Twin Cities area. Indoor rehearsals are held at local high schools or our facility in Hopkins. Outdoor field show rehearsals are held in St. Louis Park and parade rehearsals are in Hopkins.

What is the Schedule?

The time commitment for Chops is less than typical summer sports leagues. Chops provides its members with a manageable schedule and the tools necessary for any individual to have an enjoyable and successful drum corps season. Chops also presents the unique opportunity to participate in parades the first half of summer, field shows in the second half, or both.

2011 Winter/Spring Rehearsal Dates

February 19:	Field Show Rehearsal
February 26:	Parade Group Rehearsal
March 12:	Parade Group Rehearsal
March 19:	Field Show Rehearsal
April 2:	Parade Group Rehearsal
April 23:	Field Show Rehearsal
May 7:	Parade Group Rehearsal
May 12:	Field Show Rehearsal
May 21–22:	Field Show Rehearsal

View the combined Field Corps and Parade Groups Schedule

Download the printable 2011 Field Corps Schedule

Is there a fee to participate?

Yes, each member is required to pay dues every year. These dues help pay for instrument and uniform usage, instruction, transportation, some meals while at rehearsal an on tour, and much more.

How do I get more information?

We’re glad you asked. To receive more information, please fill out the Online Membership Application.

If you have any additional questions not covered here please don’t hesitate to contact Chops at 612-424-3669 or via email at recruiting@chopsinc.com.