I was disqualified from the Guitar Center Drum-Off 2026 because of my endorsement with Mapex Marching. As a non-drumset player, this exclusion felt unjust. The Drum-Off has long been a platform for aspiring drummers to showcase their talent regardless of background or pedigree. However, the current rules prevent anyone from participating if they are fortunate enough to receive endorsements.

Endorsements for amateur musicians are not necessarily indicative of professional status, but rather of a shared passion and recognition by sponsors. They represent support for an artist's growing journey, often in categories unrelated to the Drum-Off (ie:  marching percussionists, orchestral percussionists, world percussionists, etc.). Currently, the rules are creating an unfair barrier for endorsed artists who love drumming and seek to learn and grow by competing.

The potential of "conflicting endorsements" is negligible due to the panel of qualified and unbiased judges for each round of the contest. A competitor's endorsement status should in no way effect the scoring as neither should similar potential conflicts such as:

• A competitor who is a student of a judge
• A competitor performing a solo or arrangement composed by a judge
• A competitor who achieved a high placement in a prior year of the contest
• Any other preconceived ideas based on past experiences

It is vital to revise these rules to give all passionate drummers a fair chance. Many of us rely on contests like the Guitar Center Drum-Off as an opportunity to gain experience, challenge ourselves, and develop our skills. By allowing endorsed amateurs to compete, we can maintain the event’s integrity while making it more inclusive and representative of the diverse skills in the drummer community.

Sign this petition to urge Guitar Center to adjust their rules for the Drum-Off, ensuring that all drummers, regardless of endorsement status, have the opportunity to compete and shine on stage.