What year(s) did you march in the Blue Knights?
2005
What section?
Contra bass
Where did you attend high school?
Eldorado High School, Albuquerque, NM
Education beyond high school?
The University of Utah, Bachelor of Music in Instrumental Music Education
Currently in M.M.Ed. Online Graduate Program at Northern State University
What is your current occupation?
Band Director, San Jacinto High School, San Jacinto, CA
Why did you choose to march with the Blue Knights?
I enjoyed watching BK performances of previous years, it was the closest corps, and my assistant band director suggested it since he marched there in 95, and knew the corps values and vision were something that he felt I would benefit greatly from.
What is your favorite drum corps memory?
The combined exhibition performances with Academy and SCV in Pueblo, having to hold ½ pushup position as a section in the pouring rain during finals week, Finals performance being told that the audience was refusing to evacuate during our performance and wrestling contests with the bari/euph section.
How have the Blue Knights impacted your life?
Friendships that will last a lifetime, some of my best friends I just can’t seem to get rid of, (I’m lookin’ at YOU Gabriel Velasco!) and learning how to push through adversity and accomplish goals with the help of everyone around you. The lessons I learned as a member has shaped how I teach my students, and I can only hope to impress on them the same things that I learned from BK.
What are some the Blue Knights’ core values/principles that have resonated with you in life?
Learning to push beyond your perceived limits and quality performances over anything else. If you aren’t going out and giving your 100% best effort every time, you’re only doing yourself a disservice. Success is not determined by placement, but how well you work with others to accomplish goals and dedication to the task at hand.
What advice would you tell someone considering trying out for the Blue Knights?
Just go for it. Don’t be afraid to make a mistake, but rather be confident enough to recognize when you do and work to correct it. Hard work and dedication > talent. There will always be better players/performers, but you can make sure that you’re pushing yourself to be better every day.
Also, Gatorade is the best currency.
How would you like to see other Blue Knight alumni get involved in the organization?
Attending performances, volunteering at BK events, donating to the cause. Be visible and represent/support our corps.
MFBKCB ‘05
I Go On…
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