Brass, Drums, and Pageantry: Music on the Mountain Returns to Warren This July

WARREN, PA — The hills of Warren County are about to echo with the powerful sounds of brass and roaring percussion. The highly anticipated annual Music on the Mountain drum and bugle corps showcase is officially returning on Saturday, July 25, 2026, bringing a world-class lineup of marching arts to War Memorial Field.

The event, which serves as a premier stop for Drum Corps International (DCI) open-class and all-age corps, has grown into a major regional tradition. It was originally the brainchild of Sheffield High School alumnus Art Lane, who envisioned bringing the high-octane energy of drum corps back to the valley after helping rejuvenate the local high school marching band. From its inaugural show back in 2015, the event has grown into a highly respected stop where touring musicians find a warm, hospitable welcome nestled right against the Allegheny National Forest.

Gates, Food, and Festivities

For those planning their evening, the gates at War Memorial Field will open early at 4:30 PM. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early to secure premium seating on the bleachers, visit local food vendors, and browse official event merchandise. Arriving early also offers the unique chance to hear the various corps practicing their powerful brass warm-ups and drum cadences around the stadium grounds before the show.

The main field action kicks off promptly at 7:00 PM with the official opening ceremonies and a live performance of the National Anthem.

The 2026 Lineup and Performance Times

This year's itinerary promises a dense, non-stop progression of local favorites, regional champions, and heavy-hitting touring ensembles traveling from as far as the West Coast.

The official field schedule for the evening is detailed below:

The second half of the night brings massive international and cross-country star power to Warren. Canada’s own Les Stentors will kick things off after the intermission, leading into elite East Coast groups like the Raiders and 7th Regiment. The final competitive block features a battle of the West, with the highly acclaimed Battalion from Utah and Gold from Southern California closing out the field. The Battalion will pull double duty, treating the crowd to a special standstill encore performance before the judges finalize the night's competitive scores.

Ticket Prices and Purchasing Info

Because Music on the Mountain has consistently drawn massive crowds to the valley, organizers highly recommend purchasing your tickets well in advance.

• Online Presale: Tickets can be bought online right now by visiting the official event website at smotm.org. Online tickets are $15.00 (plus a standard $1.00 processing surcharge, bringing the online total to $16.00).

• Physical Tickets: For those who prefer a physical ticket in hand, presale tickets are available locally at the Sheffield Pharmacy.

• Gate Tickets: If you wait until the day of the show, tickets will be available for purchase at the stadium gates for $20.00. Please note that all ticket sales are final and non-refundable, as the show goes on rain or shine.

An army of dedicated local volunteers, corporate sponsors, and booster organizations work year-round to make this historic event possible. All ticket proceeds go directly back into funding local music education programs and ensuring that the marching arts stay vibrant and accessible across our beautiful valley. Grab your tickets early, bring the family, and get ready for an unforgettable night of music on the mountain!