The non-profit youth music group,supported by NYCS & CCBA,performed for dignitaries,at DCI East, Hershey Park, & appeared on TV & films. Mission Statement:
The New York Crimson Kings Drum Corps, established in the 1950s, is the oldest and most honored Asian-American drum corps on the east coast dedicated to youth development through music and performing arts education. Participation in the Corps
instills self-confidence, respect, character and teamwork at a crucial age forming the springboard to even greater achievements. Members build a strong work ethic, integrity and discipline that compliments non-musical education preparing them for the real world. The Crimson Kings continues a legacy of class, excellence and civic pride they are renowned for.
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A short history of the New York Chinese School Crimson Kings Drum Corps:
The New York Chinese School Crimson Kings Drum Corps was started in the early 1950s by the late principal of the school, Mr Kenneth C. Chan, as an extracurricular activity for the students of the New York Chinese School. At that time, the Corps performed primarily for the school and community appearing only in local parades and functions. The sixties proved to be a memorable decade for the corps. During those 10 years, the Corps appeared in numerous parades and shows in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, including the Barnum Festival Parade on the Fourth of July, which was known to be the largest parade each year on the East Coast. The Corps reorganized in 1971 and "Crimson Kings" was added to its name. In 1972, the Corps entered standstill competition and won over 40 first place trophies and titles. After two seasons of competitions in the intermediate level on the Garden State Circuit, the Corps moved into the "Open Class". Within the years 1980-1983 the Corps won a number of trophies including "High Horn" and "High Drums". The Corps was reorganized once again in the late 1980's. In 1991 and 1992, the Crimson Kings Winter guard entered the N.J.A. and had taken the Class "A" championship "back to back". The Corps also fielded a show in the Music & Maneuver events in 1992. The corps continued its winning ways traveling to Albany in 2002 to do a performance at the V.F.W. national convention, and also expanded its facilities with the addition of a new CK members rehearsal space and new equipment. While maintaining the high standards and traditions, the Corps expanded its horizons by hosting "The Edge", performing at Hershey Park and recording and releasing their first professionally recorded album, "Heart & Valor", in the Corps' 60 year history. The Crimson Kings produced their first field show in nearly 20 years with the show "Heart and Valor" in 2012. Unfortunately it was never performed to a public audience due to scheduling conflicts caused by the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. The Corps returned to winning form with a 2013 First Place Best Music award: Massapequa 4th of July Celebration Events. The Corps has performed for diplomats and dignitaries, special events like the CAPA Asian American Heritage Festival and has also appeared on film and television. On August 1, 2014, the Crimson Kings performed their 2014 field show program "Skyward" at DCI East, courtesy of Soundsport. This was the Corps' first field show performance in 22 years. Established in 1953, and based in New York City, today, CKDC members ages range from 9 to 19 from many diverse backgrounds. It is one of the last few junior drum corps still remaining in New York City.
