Frequently Asked Questions - About the Corps

The Pioneer organization has enjoyed a long and proud history of excellence in performance throughout North America. Originally founded in 1961 as the Imperials of St. Patrick, the corps merged with the Cedarburg Thunderbolts of Cedarburg, Wisconsin, in 1973. The widely respected youth organization changed its name to Pioneer in 1974 with the addition of a generous corporate sponsor, the Pioneer Box and Container Company of Cedarburg.

Over the years, the Pioneer has continued to evolve and focus on the pursuit of excellence in every aspect of their educational and musical programs. Since the corps adopted the philosophy of "Better Every Day!," its members have managed to capture seven Drum Corps Midwest titles and three Drum Corps International World Championship titles, gaining World Class Semi-finalist status in Drum Corps International and proving the Pioneer to be one of the most successful drum and bugle corps in the Midwest.

The corps' Irish heritage is reflected in its musical selections that have become the corps' trademark, enjoyed by audiences across the United States

Pioneerland is a parcel of land that the corps owns in Cudahy, WI. The seven acre property is currently the home of our practice field, which is equipped with a permanent multi-level tower and an office overlooking the field. Also located on the property is a two-story garage which houses all of our coach buses and equipment during the off season. In the near future the corps also plans to build a permanent corps hall on the property in which it will hold all of its winter camps and spring rehearsals.

For more on the history of Pioneerland, click here!