The Madison Scouts are honored to announce that Scott Boerma, alumnus and long-time music arranger, has been selected for induction to the Drum Corps International Hall of Fame. Scott has served passionately in the drum corps activity for over 35 years, starting in 1984 as a member of the Scouts (baritone), continuing as a brass instructor in 1986, and ultimately serving as a world-class music arranger for over 30 years with both the Madison Scouts (24 years) and Spirit of Atlanta (6 years). 

Scott’s educational philosophy and delivery reflect the very best qualities that are cultivated in the drum corps activity and his musical contributions have shaped and advanced the creative landscape of Drum Corps International with arrangements that have connected and excited audiences throughout his career.

‍“In my opinion, it is evident that Scott stands as one of the historic creators in the activity and directly aided its growth and development through educational and artistic innovation.” -Robert W. Smith

Scott embodies the ideals set forth in the mission and vision of both the Madison Scouts and Drum Corps International and, more importantly, he has taken his talents and shared them broadly with students across the nation, where he has become known as a “teacher of the teachers”.

‍“...he not only contributed of himself tirelessly but led by example – talk about an inspiring individual. He has inspired young adults to teach passionately and be creative. His passion not only comes through his music but his teaching.” -Sal Salas

During the 1988 season, Scott was given his first opportunity to begin re-working some of the brass book and the Scouts would be crowned the DCI World Champions that year. Scott would go on to either arrange, compose, and or teach the brass books for 33 DCI seasons, 27 with the Madison Scouts and 6 with the Spirit of Atlanta. Those corps were DCI Finalists 25 times and the 1995 Madison Scouts won the Jim Ott High Brass Award. The shows that were created during Scott’s tenure are some of the most memorable in the activity, with audience engagement and excitement setting new standards.

‍“What is remarkable all these years later, is that he continues to carve his own path inventively, while inspiring young teachers, performers and students to achieve at the highest levels.” -Michael Cesario

Dr. Scott Boerma is the Director of Bands and Professor of Music at Western Michigan University, where he conducts the University Wind Symphony and Western Winds. Previously, he was the Associate Director of Bands at the University of Michigan and Director of the Michigan Marching Band. Boerma earned his Doctor of Musical Arts degree in wind conducting at Michigan State University and his Master of Music degree in music education at the University of Michigan. He received his Bachelor of Music degree in music education at Western Michigan University. In 2023, Scott was inducted into the Madison Scouts Hall of Fame.

Established in 1985, the Drum Corps International Hall of Fame honors the outstanding achievements of marching music's passionate and committed administrators, creators, instructors, judges, and others who have made significant contributions through years of hard work, innovation, and direction. Joining Scott in the DCI Hall of Fame 2024 class will be Michael Duffy, Gordon Henderson and Jon Vanderkolff. Scouts alumni in DCI Hall of Fame include Scott Stewart (1993), Bill Howard (1994), Jame Elvord (1997), CH Beebe (2002), Scott Chandler (2004), Dan Acheson (2008), Todd Ryan (2011), and Sal Salas (2020).