Duke History:  Blue Devils were founded in 1957 by Ann and Tony Odello and toured on a national level for the first time in 1973. In their second year of national competition, the corps earned full DCI membership by their 9th place finish at the 1974 DCI Championships in Ithaca, NY, with over 40 years in the top five and a record-breaking 33 world championship …..

Duke History:  Blue Devils were founded in 1957 by Ann and Tony Odello and toured on a national level for the first time in 1973. In their second year of national competition, the corps earned full DCI membership by their 9th place finish at the 1974 DCI Championships in Ithaca, NY, with over 40 years in the top five and a record-breaking 33 world championship …..

 

The Blue Devils, one of the most iconic and successful drum corps in the history of the Drum Corps International (DCI), have a rich legacy that dates back to 1957. Founded by Ann and Tony Odello, the corps began as a small, community-based marching band, but it quickly grew to become a force to be reckoned with in the world of drum corps. Today, the Blue Devils stand as a symbol of excellence, creativity, and perseverance, with their journey from humble beginnings to national prominence marking a remarkable chapter in the evolution of the DCI.

 

### The Founding of the Blue Devils

 

In 1957, Ann and Tony Odello, both passionate about the marching arts, established the Blue Devils in Concord, California. Originally created as a local drum corps, the Blue Devils were committed to fostering a spirit of musicality, discipline, and teamwork in the youth of the region. Their goal was to provide an outlet for young performers to develop their skills while instilling values that would serve them throughout their lives.

 

Although the corps started small, it quickly gained attention in the local and regional circuit. With a focus on precision and performance, the Blue Devils began to attract talented musicians and color guard members from all over California. Their early success at local competitions laid the groundwork for their future in national drum corps.

 

### A National Presence

 

By the early 1970s, the Blue Devils had made a name for themselves in the competitive drum corps community. Their ambition and drive to compete at the national level led them to tour beyond their home state. In 1973, the Blue Devils embarked on their first national tour, marking a pivotal moment in the corps’ history. This tour gave the corps a chance to showcase their talents on a much larger stage and test their skills against the best corps in the country.

 

Their 1973 national debut was a significant step forward, but it was in their second year of competition that the Blue Devils made their most historic achievement. In 1974, the corps earned full membership in DCI by finishing in 9th place at the DCI Championships held in Ithaca, New York. This achievement not only marked their arrival as a legitimate contender in the drum corps world but also solidified their place in the future of DCI.

 

### Growth and Success

 

After securing their DCI membership, the Blue Devils began to solidify their status as one of the premier corps in the activity. The 1974 season was just the beginning of what would become a dominant era for the Blue Devils. Over the years, they continued to build on the foundation laid by their founders, Ann and Tony Odello, and became known for their innovative shows, strong musical performances, and unmatched precision in the field.

 

The Blue Devils went on to win numerous DCI titles, establishing a legacy of excellence that has yet to be rivaled. They became the model for many aspiring corps, with their approach to music, choreography, and visual design influencing the direction of the entire activity. The Blue Devils’ success is not just measured in championships, but in the impact they have had on generations of performers and fans.

 

### Legacy and Impact

 

Today, the Blue Devils are not only one of the most decorated corps in DCI history but also a pillar of the drum corps community. Their story, which began in 1957, continues to inspire young musicians and performers to pursue excellence and contribute to the rich tradition of drum corps. From their humble beginnings to their current status as one of the most successful and influential corps in the world, the Blue Devils remain a true testament to the vision and determination of their founders, Ann and Tony Odello.

 

As the Blue Devils look toward the future, their legacy remains firmly rooted in the values and spirit that Ann and Tony Odello instilled in the corps nearly seven decades ago. Their journey from a local corps to a national powerhouse is a remarkable story of growth, perseverance, and passion, ensuring that the Blue Devils will continue to inspire and lead the way for generations to come.