MARCHING.COM: Wenger Corp. introduces OnBoard Marching Band Podiums

The new OnBoard Drum Major Podium from Wenger Corp.

OWATONNA, MN — With the introduction of new drum major and auxiliary podiums, Wenger Corp. is expanding its OnBoard® product family of specialized equipment for marching bands, drum corps and similar groups.

In less than 30 seconds, two people can erect the OnBoard Drum Major Podium to its full 72" (1.8 m) height. The innovative, easy-fold design features gas-assist springs that minimize the lifting effort required. When set up, this podium provides a solid, secure vantage point with non-skid, heavy-duty deck and optional safety rails.

For transportation, four large-diameter, high-wear rubber wheels provide easy mobility over any surface. When folded it can serve as a trailer for other equipment; it will also fit inside most trailers and trucks. Intended as a companion to the larger Drum Major Podium, Wenger's 42" (l.1 m) OnBoard Auxiliary Podium can be assembled by one person. Both podium models feature an attractive appearance, with durable, heavy-gauge steel and aluminum construction, and black powder-coat paint finish.

"This new Drum Major Podium is working out very well for us," explains Brad Furlano, executive director of the Blue Stars Drum & Bugle Corps, a DCI group based in La Crosse, Wis.

"The way the platform raises up is pretty ingenious — it's a great design," he explains. "The wheel system is very easy to roll, lock and make stable."

Wenger logo

Furlano says their previous podium was unwieldy in the way it folded up and the wheels attached. It was also difficult to lift, move, set up and stabilize. "We like how the rails are removable — we only use the back rail," notes Furlano. "Whatever configuration you want, it's ready to go and can meet your needs."

When members of the Blue Stars are loading or unloading this new podium from their equipment truck, Furlano says there are logical, easy places to grab it, without many pinch points or places to potentially get injured.

Along with these two new podiums, seven different OnBoard Cart models are currently available for instruments, uniforms, equipment and other gear. They are designed to facilitate transportation, logistics and storage, saving time and protecting valuable equipment. All OnBoard products are covered by a five-year warranty.

Wenger Corporation provides innovative products for music and theatre education, performing arts and athletic equipment storage and transport. Wenger pioneered sound isolation in practice rooms and now offers modular rooms with virtual acoustic technology (VAE) and built-in digital recording/playback. Products for music and theatre spaces include acoustical shells, instrument and equipment storage cabinets, audience seating, portable stage platforms and tiered risers. In addition to headquarters in Owatonna, Minn., Wenger has facilities in Canada and China, along with international distributors. For more information about any OnBoard products, visit WengerCorp.com/OnBoard or contact Wenger Corporation at 1-800-4WENGER.

Text and images courtesy of Wenger Corp.

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Wenger Corp. introduces OnBoard Marching Band Podiums