History
IMPACT Drum and Bugle Corps carries forward a proud and vibrant tradition of performance excellence in Central Florida. With deep roots and a fresh spirit, this group is more than just a corps — it’s a movement fueled by passion, perseverance, and the power of music.
The story begins with Heat Wave of Orlando, a senior drum and bugle corps founded in 1992. Born from the union of two regional groups from opposite Florida coasts, Heat Wave quickly made its mark. In 1996, Heat Wave Sr. cemented their status as a federal non profit organization and got to work. Competing in the then-new Drum Corps Associates (DCA) Class A division, they rose to prominence — capturing championships in both 1998 and 2003.
As the Florida drum corps landscape evolved, the legacy of Heat Wave lived on through the members of the Bahia Shriners Drum Corps. In 2012, inspired by a vision to reignite the activity in Orlando, they opened their doors to the public. From that bold decision, IMPACT was born.
That same year, IMPACT made its thrilling debut at the DCA World Championships in Annapolis, MD. Since then, the corps has grown, becoming a fixture at conventions, parades, high school band shows, and other community events throughout the year.
A pivotal moment came in 2016, when IMPACT joined the DCI SoundSport program — a platform that allowed them to shine once again in front of enthusiastic DCI audiences. The corps has since performed in Orlando, Atlanta, Indianapolis, and beyond, consistently earning Gold ratings and multiple Best in Show honors. Today, IMPACT is proud to serve as a flagship ensemble within the SoundSport community, helping to expand and energize the activity nationwide.
What truly sets IMPACT apart, though, is its people. Diversity is not just welcomed — it's celebrated. With members ranging in age from 14 to 78, and representing a wide array of backgrounds, beliefs, and life experiences, the corps stands as a living testament to the unifying power of music.
At its core, IMPACT Drum and Bugle Corps is about more than performance. It’s about connection, community, and creating something extraordinary — together.