Effective January 1, 2018 Inspire Arts & Music (IAM) and the Boston Crusaders have “returned home” and will perform exclusively with Vic Firth sticks and mallets! The organization has been a long time endorser of Zildjian cymbals, and now returning to Vic Firth makes for a very special association. Since a merger in 2010, Vic Firth – the world’s leading manufacturer of drum sticks and mallets – has operated under the Zildjian corporation. The Zildjian company, nearly 400 years old, is located in Norwell, Massachusetts and is the largest manufacturer of cymbals in the world. These historic companies are the perfect fit for the iconic and surging Boston Crusaders brand.

The sponsorship agreement encompasses all performing groups within IAM, including 7th Regiment Drum and Bugle Corps, HpYPE, and Denney Drums. Zildjian and Vic Firth will also support Great East Music Festivals, the oldest and largest scholastic festival company in New England, as it expands geographically to Florida, Texas, Virginia and New York.

“It is truly a wonderful opportunity for us to allow our students – from our city groups to our drum corps performers – the chance to perform with the highest quality cymbals, sticks and mallets on the planet. Beyond superior quality, Zildjian and Vic Firth have demonstrated innovation and a commitment to music education and educational tools to support performers and teachers at all levels.” – Chris Holland, Chief Operations Officer, Inspire Arts & Music; Executive Director, Boston Crusaders

Colin McNutt

“This is a great honor to come back home and bring the Boston Crusaders back to the Vic Firth Company. We are very blessed to now fully join the Zildjian family and partner with Vic Firth and Zildjian in educational and performance endeavors.”

– Colin McNutt, Director of Percussion, Boston Crusaders; Vic Firth Signature Artist

Iain Moyer

“The opportunity to unite the Boston Crusaders with Vic Firth and Zildjian is thrilling. We look forward to many years of collaboration with the people and products of this great company.”

– Dr. Iain Moyer, Front Ensemble Arranger and Composer, Boston Crusaders; Director of Athletic Bands and Percussion, Widener University; Vic Firth Signature Artist

Purchase your Vic Firth and Zildjian products through the Great East Music Store!