After weeks of discussion over the recent coronavirus outbreak, the voting membership of Drum Corps International came to a unanimous conclusion that the 2020 DCI season will not take place. As a part of this announcement, they have also come to the consensus that age-out performers, or those that are in their final year of the activity at age 21 (or 22 if their birthday falls during the season), will be given a one-year extension of eligibility.

The statement released by DCI enumerates the feelings of countless organizers, performers, educators, and fans in sharing "profound disappointment." The announcement finishes, "DCI and all participating organizations will shift focus from tour preparation to addressing the sizable operational and financial challenges resulting from these extraordinary circumstances."

Read the full statement below or by visiting DCI.org:

We know this is a difficult time for everyone as we all respond to the COVID-19 crisis. The events worldwide have impacted Drum Corps International as well, forcing cancellation of the 2020 Summer Tour as of Wednesday, March 25.

DCI’s voting membership unanimously reached the difficult decision with great regret after thorough evaluation of numerous factors affecting participant health and safety, travel requirements, logistics, venue availability, and other associated issues. The membership also agreed that in order to preserve the opportunity for this year’s class of age-outs, performers will receive additional eligibility based on existing age requirements with a one-year extension.

Above all else, the entire DCI community remains unified in its commitment to preserve the health, safety, and well-being of everyone involved in our activity.

We share in the profound disappointment of the thousands of remarkable performers who will be unable to take the field this summer on the 2020 DCI Tour. We encourage every one of them to continue to commit fully to the pursuit of their personal best. We sincerely hope that corps members everywhere will continue to embrace the values taught through participation in the marching arts to remain motivated until we are able to perform together under the stadium lights once again.

We are extremely grateful for everyone who continues to support our participating corps — from the incredible teachers, designers, judges and administrators to the uniform, instrument and marching music products companies. We are fortunate to have a nationwide network of Tour Event Partners, band directors, schools and performance venues who keep the lights shining bright on our performers. Our most heartfelt appreciation also goes out to the countless staff, event staff, volunteers, health and wellness providers, and to DCI’s vast family of fans around the world, along with countless parents and alumni who have always been the unconditional allies of our performers.

DCI and all participating organizations will shift focus from tour preparation to addressing the sizable operational and financial challenges resulting from these extraordinary circumstances. In the coming weeks and months, DCI and the corps will work to develop the plans necessary to return to a full schedule in 2021.

We will provide information soon on ways to help ensure that drum corps emerges from this crisis stronger than ever. Together, we will #MarchOn.