Our goal is to provide youth with performing arts programs that will enhance their musical appreciation and skills, teach self-discipline and self-confidence, and instill dignity and pride in their community, all through music education.
Gems Drum & Bugle Corps is a growing youth performing arts organization based in Idaho’s Treasure Valley. Our mission is to provide accessible, high-quality performing arts experiences that help young people develop as musicians, performers, leaders, and well-rounded individuals.
Gems was founded in 2022 after recognizing that Idaho lacked a local drum corps opportunity for young performers. Our founders set out to create a program that would proudly represent our community and state while providing students with meaningful educational and performance experiences.
In 2023, Gems fielded its inaugural corps and toured to Kennewick, Washington; Boise, Idaho; and Salt Lake City, Utah. The corps made its official Drum Corps International debut at Corps Encore with its first production, Esto Perpetua: named after Idaho’s state motto.
In 2024, Gems grew to more than 80 members representing eight states. The corps presented Ghost Stallion, featuring music from The Rite of Spring, Mahler’s Fifth Symphony, and Symphonie Fantastique, alongside original compositions and arrangements.
The 2025 season brought new milestones in program design, production, and organizational growth. It concluded with the announcement of Boise Gems Independent, expanding Gems into the indoor percussion activity and marking the next chapter of Boise Gems Performing Arts.
In 2026, Boise Gems Independent completed its inaugural season with Dreams of Freedom, earning a place in the finals at its Salt Lake City regional and making its first appearance at the WGI World Championships in Dayton, Ohio. Gems Drum & Bugle Corps also reached a major milestone by becoming a Drum Corps International Open Class affiliate. The corps presented The Color of Chaos and continued expanding its performance presence throughout the Pacific Northwest.
Today, Boise Gems Performing Arts supports both Gems Drum & Bugle Corps and Boise Gems Independent. Together, these programs provide young performers with opportunities to grow through music, movement, competition, travel, teamwork, and community: while proudly representing Idaho on regional, national, and international stages.