In 1974, DCI was held at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York…
The top contenders for first place were Madison Scouts, Anaheim Kingsmen, and the Vanguard. Since the Vanguard had placed first in 1973, they had the option of performing last in 1974. They decided to go on first (before the other two top contenders) in order to get full appreciation of the show from the fans and judges. It proved to be the right decision. The crowd ate the show up. The finale brought the awe-struck-crowd to their feet in cheering adulation.
They finished number one for teh second year in a row with a score of 89.5, the highest score ever recorded in the three years of DCI’s existence. In addition, they took High M&M, High Drums, and tied Madison for High GE. The drumline remained undefeated for a second year in a row for a total of 54 consecutive wins.
One of the greatest memories of this season came in the form of what Gail Royer considered to be a “simple but effective” closer. That simple tune has gone on to become the song that, for generations, continues to unite SCV alumni, staff, supporters and fans… “Send in the Clowns”.
