DCE Close Up (7): Kees
In the DCE Close Up series you will meet the DCE personnel. Who are these people behind the scenes who offer their leasure time to run drum corps events? In this episode we'll meet Kees Kopmels.
Name: Kees Kopmels
DCE function: Contest Director
Age: 45
Residence: Alphen aan den Rijn (NL)
Job: Database controller 'Didoc Data Services'
Drum corps history: "I don't have a drum corps carreer. I started with Showband Jeugdbelang in my own village IJzendijke - they will step into the drum corps activity this year. I was also a member of Con Bravura in Leiderdorp. I've been a drum corps fan since 1983, but I was already too old to be a marching member. I became a board member of Drum Corps Holland in 1995. Later, DCH became part of the KNFM and I was a taskforce member until the taskforce was disbanded by the KNFM in 2000."
Working for DCE since: "The very beginning."
Why? "I wanted to place my knowledge and experience at the disposal of a new organisation, without being involved on the board level. I've been a Contest Director for DCH, KNFM, CGN and DCE."
Is it fun off the field? "I'm not off the field, I'm on the field! It is fantastic, dealing with people having the same passion as yourself. I see their passion and emotions. I'm responsible for the timing and penalties during the show."
Greatest drum corps memory: I've a million great drum corps memories! To name a few: The baritone soloist of Beatrix in 'Malaga' (Finals 1983). My first DCI experience in 1989 with 'The Phantom of the Opera' production performed by Santa Clara Vanguard. The last performance of Joint Adventure - I saw pride, sorrow, emotions and passion. That was a very special moment, the human side of drum corps.
With DCE, the first outdoor Championships were awesome. The international aspect of the event was very unexpected, and surprised everyone."
Do you want to be a DCE staff member yourself? Please contact us, and we'd be happy to welcome you in the DCE team!
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