White Sabers Drum & Bugle Corps: JE Students and Alumni Shine in Indianapolis

The White Sabers Drum & Bugle Corps, a non-profit, community-based organization, is making waves not just for its stellar performances but for its strong commitment to inclusivity and community outreach. The group provides a welcoming environment for members of all ages and backgrounds, allowing them to express themselves through music and performance while giving back to the community.

Currently, the White Sabers are proud to count two Jordan-Elbridge students and two alumni among their ranks. Silas Madison, an 8th grader, and Harper Taylor, a 10th grader, represent the next generation of musicians from Jordan-Elbridge. They are joined by Jake Everett, a member of the Class of 2015, and Holden Taylor, Class of 2023. This connection to the Jordan-Elbridge community runs even deeper, as the White Sabers’ Assistant Director, Dylan Kucinski, also serves as the Assistant Field Band Director of the Jordan-Elbridge Marching Eagles.

The White Sabers recently competed at the prestigious DCI All Age World Championships at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. In a thrilling Open Class contest, the corps earned the silver medal with a score of 86.775, narrowly trailing behind the Cincinnati Tradition’s 87.475. Despite the narrow miss, the White Sabers impressed in key categories, especially in the music captions, earning top All-Age Open scores in High Brass and High Total Effect. These scores weren’t just the best in Open Class but were also competitive in the larger All-Age scale, placing the White Sabers ahead of two World Class competitors.

Stephen Taylor, a proud White Sabers parent and member of the Jordan-Elbridge Band Boosters, reflected on the challenges faced by the performers. "The amount of cooperation and coordination it takes for all of those individuals to do what they have to in precision timing, movement, music, choreography, spin/throw and not hit or harm someone is next to amazing on its own," Taylor remarked. He also shared how Silas and Harper spent countless hours switching between White Sabers and Jordan-Elbridge Marching Eagles practices, mastering two entirely different shows.

Taylor went on to explain the motivation behind such dedication. "Why would they do this? Because being a part of something bigger than yourself is where you find out who you really are and what you're made of. They find that when you fall, there is a hand to help you up, and they ask if you are okay. They are truly asking about your well-being. If something is wrong, there is someone to help, not just in the now, but whenever you may need it."

The Jordan-Elbridge Central School District is incredibly proud of its current and former students for their achievements with the White Sabers organization. Their hard work, determination, and commitment to the arts continue to inspire the community. Congratulations to Silas, Harper, Jake, Holden, and the entire White Sabers team for their outstanding accomplishments!