Testimonials

General

      "The true mark of creative genius is not only the ability to create at a high level, but to do it consistently. Year after year John and Ian have proven to be at the forefront of the activity both creatively and competitively, and it is this consistency that makes them two of the best designers in the world of pageantry today."

Sean Vega
-Riverside Community College, Battery Arranger/Program Coordinator


      “No matter what year or what genre within the marching arts, the works that John Mapes and Ian Grom produce are always at the top of the pack. Musical, entertaining, educational and simply great stuff! Man, any group looking to buy a quality original marching band or indoor show would be more than satisfied with such a purchase. In fact I think you would be absolutely delighted! Thanks guys for the great work you two do!”

Neil Larrivee
-The Cadets, Dartmouth H.S. Front Ensemble Arranger/Instructor



Indoor Percussion

      "I've had the chance to judge these guys in every class year after year, and they never fail to deliver the goods and then some. Consistently clever and innovative in everything they put out, John and Ian are the real deal."

Ralph Hardimon
-DCI Hall of Fame, WGI Judge


      “John Mapes and Ian Grom have figured out the indoor gig. Their blend of electronics and acoustics is second to none. Their shows are always well thought out, and are able to carry the theme from start to finish. I have enjoyed all of their shows as a spectator as well as a judge.”

Scott Johnson
-Percussion Caption head of the Concord Blue Devils, WGI judge


      “As an active judge of various drumline competitions around the country, I always love coming to Southern California to see John and Ian’s work. Their compositional creativity, especially considering the number of shows they write is astounding. And each show sounds completely different. The voicing and orchestration of the front ensemble makes the groups sound really full and lush. Their knowledge and use of electronic percussion is cutting edge and the coordination of the pit and battery elements is something that makes the compositions special. I’m so excited that they have made their shows available for the general public.”

J.J. Pipitone
-DCI Judge


      "When I first began exploring your website and checking out the productions that were available when we were in our planning stage of the season, I was completely captivated by each show. I found myself listening to each of them over and over again. The possibilities seem limitless and it was easy to get excited about the season. I cannot begin to tell you the number of times that we received credit for the orchestration of "Skin Deep". Each judge's tape began with "Wonderfull scoring of the front ensemble. I love the warmth that the keyboards are introducing to the audience." And each time, I explained that we could not take credit. That the show simply was very well written. Our success this year has so much to do with your creativity and your ability to effortlessly take the musicians playing the music as well as the audience on a emotional journey.

      On behalf of my staff and students, I want to thank you for making your programs available for the public. Our experience this year was without a doubt the most rewarding. Best of luck to you in the future. And I hope that Timber Creek will be able to work with one of your productions again."

Daniel O'Neill
-Band Director, Timber Creek High School


      "On behalf of my fellow staff members at North Allegheny HS, thank you for providing us with a great show. The scoring was excellent, and our students, staff, and fans enjoyed it thoroughly. We truly appreciate what you do for the indoor activity in providing well written, successful compositions at a great price. We highly recommend Box-Six to anyone looking for a great show!"

Evan Brown
-Indoor Percussion Staff, North Allegheny High School


Marching Band

      “John and Ian’s arrangements are not only cutting edge but are leading the way in modern marching band design. The pacing is impeccable, the effects are brilliantly written in. After working with them for only two short years I would put them at the top of the list of arrangers that I enjoy working with.”

Jaime Holly
-Drill Designer


      “Mapes & Grom are presenting a whole new dimension to marching band. Their composition style is exploring colors, textures and harmonies that have yet to be heard on the field. The blend of outstanding creativity and skillful arrangements bring to life something truly unique. They are also able to put together an entire package of design & music that is completely ready for my program and tailored to the specific abilities of my students. In my third year of working with Mapes & Grom, I can say that they are very professional and a pleasure to work with. I can highly recommend box-six to any band director that's looking for arrangements or original compositions that will make your band sound great and stand out from the rest.”

Justin Wallin
-Director of Bands Chino Hills High School


      “Box Six is for real. Ian and John’s compositions have a distinct, refreshing sound that, coupled with their engaging concepts, are the perfect vehicle for taking your band to the next level. “Seamless”, “Brilliant” and “Ridiculous” are what the adjudicators had to say this past season with our first Box Six production. The wind scores are artfully composed and powerful. The percussion score is was you’d expect from these guys – perfect! Ian and John have helped breathe new life into our marching program, and we can’t wait to continue our relationship with the team that truly sets new standards. Thank you Box Six!”

Dave Britton
-Director of Instrumental Music, Rancocas Valley Regional High School
2009 USSBA Group III Open New Jersey State Champions
2009 USSBA Group III National Champions