Meet Korey Craven: The New Architect of Spirit of Atlanta's Color Guard in 2026

In drum corps, every young performer dreams of a place where the hard work pays off in the biggest way and an opportunity to stand on the biggest stage and preform at the highest level.  For decades, Spirit of Atlanta has been that powerful, ambitious home for thousands of young men and women. Now, as the corps prepares for its 50th anniversary, that intense tradition of growth and artistry is getting a fresh start under the focused guidance of Korey Craven, Spirit’s new Color Guard Caption Head and Designer.

Korey isn't one for fanfare, but he listens carefully and is quick to shine the spotlight on others. Yet, his own experience speaks volumes about the quiet grit that built his career. He started on the drumline in high school, which might surprise some. But a junior-year decision to join winter guard was the pivot point, the moment he found his true pursuit. "I first started during my junior year. I decided to join the winter guard and completely fell in love with it," he recalls.

That devotion led him straight to Étude Winterguard, one of the most respected independent programs in the country. He spent nine seasons there. "Étude, in particular, has been like a second home for me. It’s where I feel like I’ve truly 'grown up' in this activity." He then took his skills to the drum corps stage, spinning with Carolina Crown before returning to the corps as an instructor. Korey explains that his mentors taught him how to lead with compassion while still building a shared vision.

His approach to leadership is a careful balance between structured, collaborative and most importantly people-first. He believes that demanding work shouldn't ever be confused with harshness. Instead, a successful team culture must be built on three non-negotiable values: respect, accountability, and joy.

"Giving performers the tools they need to succeed is always at the forefront of my mind and a major priority throughout the learning and rehearsal process," he says. He insists when people feel valued, they give more of themselves. "As a performer, I’ve found joy in pushing myself and striving to be the best possible version of myself, so I try to create a space for performers where they can experience that same joy."

His ultimate measure of success for a season has nothing to do with scores or trophies. "Scores are temporary, but the impact of the experience lasts far beyond August," he states. "What lasts is pride in what you built together. A successful season means members walk away stronger, not just technically, but personally."

Craven is intent on building a guard for the 2026 season that feels cohesive, dynamic, and emotionally connected.

For him, attitude and work ethic matter more than raw talent. He says he’s drawn to performers who persist through difficult and frustrating reps while genuinely working to lift the people around them. He offers this clear advice for those preparing to audition: "Focus on building consistency in your fundamentals and work on being comfortable taking direction and adapting quickly. Auditions aren’t just about skills, they’re about showing who you are as a teammate, student, and performer."

Craven’s arrival signals a deep commitment to building a positive culture that helps performers thrive. He wants to deepen the visual tradition and capitalize on the momentum that’s already been gathering within the corps.

"I want this to be a season that people remember," Korey concludes. "Not because of scores or placements, but because of how we performed and how we treated each other." He promises that the 2026 Spirit of Atlanta Color Guard will be defined by one powerful word: Unforgettable. "I want audiences to experience a 'wow' factor, and I want members to have an experience that is so rewarding and will leave them wanting to do it all over again."

Ready to make the 2026 season yours? This is your chance to earn that unforgettable experience. Don't wait to grab your spot in the next great chapter of the Spirit of Atlanta. Take the first step and join us when color guard auditions begin November 23rd in the Atlanta area. Find all audition details and registration information at www.spiritofatlanta.org/join.