The Cavaliers Welcomes Daniel Belcher as New Drum Corps Director
Rosemont, IL — The Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps proudly announces the appointment of Daniel Belcher as their next Drum Corps Director. As previously announced, Dr. Michael Vaughn, retiring corps director, will continue with the organization through the end of the 2024 drum corps season working with Daniel to ensure a smooth transition.
The selection of Daniel Belcher comes after careful consideration and evaluation of his outstanding contributions to the world of drum corps and his impressive track record in leadership roles within the marching arts community. Daniel's passion, dedication, and experience make him the ideal candidate to lead The Cavaliers into a new era of excellence.
“Daniel’s appointment followed a search process that drew in a number of highly qualified applicants, each of whom brought unique perspectives and strengths to the process” noted Matt O’Brien, Chair of the Corps Director Search Committee. “In the end, the committee felt strongly that Daniel’s leadership skills and problem-solving approach made him the right individual to lead The Cavaliers.”
Belcher receiving the 2019 Don Warren Memorial Scholarship alongside alumni Ryan Ling, and Don Warren’s daughter and granddaughter, Jan and Leah Noel.
Daniel Belcher brings a wealth of experience to his new role. His DCI marching experience includes serving for four years as a drum major at the Blue Knights, aging out in 2019. In his age-out summer, Daniel became the inaugural recipient of the Don Warren Memorial Scholarship, a testament to his outstanding contributions and commitment to the activity. In addition to DCI, Daniel participated in the first four years of WGI Winds marching with Rhythm X and taking home three world class championships.
After aging out of drum corps, the Blue Knights immediately hired Daniel on as their Director of Member Experience, where he worked to create the most positive environment possible for Blue Knights members. Daniel's proven leadership abilities propelled him through the ranks, culminating in his appointment as Assistant Director and, ultimately, as the Director in 2022.
Daniel Belcher is a graduate of Concordia University in Montréal, Québec, holding a degree in Electrical Engineering. He grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio, and currently resides in Denver, Colorado with his partner Marie and their dog Scout.
The Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps are looking forward to the energy and experience that Daniel will bring to the organization, building upon the tradition of excellence and the rich legacy of The Cavaliers. The corps extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Michael Vaughn for his dedicated years of service and invaluable contributions to the organization.