Blue Knights Announce 2018 Hall of Fame Inductees

DENVER, CO – The Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps Hall of Fame Committee is pleased to announce the induction of the inaugural 2018 Hall of Fame class. The following individuals were selected by their significant impact to the Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps through their years. They will be inducted into the Hall of Fame on Friday, July 13th at a reception at DoubleTree DTC (map) open to the public (get tickets here). Hall of Fame inductees will also be recognized at Drums Along the Rockies on Saturday, July 14th at Mile High Stadium (get tickets here).


Robbie Billings

Robbie Billings was the Visual Designer and Color Guard Caption Head for the Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps where he oversaw the corps’ show design throughout the 1990’s and 2000’s. It was Robbie’s design and technique that gave the Blue Knights their unique visual identity and was at the forefront of making the Blue Knights perennial DCI finalists.


Ralph Hardimon

Ralph Hardimon started with the Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps in 1990 as an educator and designer, and has been a valuable consultant to the Blue Knights ensembles since. Ralph led the percussion into the Top 8 in DCI 13 times. His influence expanded beyond percussion and helped lead the corps through decades of success.


Dave Marvin

Dave Marvin started with the Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps in the 1970’s as a member and has moved into several roles within the organization. Dave filled the roles of music arranger for the Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps, show designer for the 4-time WGI World Champion Blue Knights Percussion Ensemble, and as Director of the Denver Broncos Stampede Drum Line. Dave has not only helped the organization, but has created several performance opportunities for thousands of young musicians throughout the state of Colorado.


Raymond Route

Ray Route was the Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps’ first executive director for 14 years from 1958 to 1972. Ray instilled what it meant to be a Blue Knight in the organization’s formative years to encourage, build self-esteem, and help prepare the young musicians for adulthood.

  

Andy Smart

Andy Smart started with the Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps as a lead soprano player in 1994 and aged-out of the corps in 1999 as the drum major after 6 years as a performer. Andy joined the educational staff as the Brass Caption Head in 2002 and 2003 and returned to the role from 2008-2011 to help the drum corps regain its place in DCI Finals.


Fred and Fae Taylor

Fred and Fae Taylor are the founders of the Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps. They brought their success in show business to Denver in 1951 and started the popular Fred & Fae Talent School. As a drum instructor, Fred wanted a performance outlet for his students and formed a junior drum & bugle corps known as the Blue Knights in 1958.


∴ Get tickets to the inaugural Hall of Fame Reception HERE!
∴ Get tickets to Drums Along the Rockies HERE!

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Graduating in 2014 with her B.S., Michelle was a classroom educator for 7 years. During her time as an educator Michelle managed a music academy that served over 200 students at 2 locations. She was also on the administrative team for 317 Performing Arts, and the Operations Director for Veritas in 2022 (PIW).

Michelle began her Drum Corps experience in 2017 volunteering with the Bluecoats. She was the assistant merchandise manager at Bluecoats in 2018. For 2020-2022, Michelle worked on the administration staff for Blue Knights. She has been in the role of volunteer coordinator, travel coordinator, and tour administrator.

Currently residing in Indiana, Michelle is married to Garrett Ciriello and they have a beautiful boy Oliver who they welcomed in 2021.

 

Michelle will continue in her role as Director of Project Management for Ascend Performing Arts in addition to taking on the role of Assistant Director of the Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps.

Assistant Corps Director

MICHELLE CIRIELLO

Caleb Florence has had a lifelong passion for music and the marching arts from a very young age. Caleb began his marching career in high school, notably performing with Northglenn Performance Theater. From there, Caleb transitioned to his time with the Blue Knights Percussion Ensemble (2016-2020) and the Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps (2017-2019) as a member of both ensembles while pursuing a degree in Music Education from the University of Northern Colorado. Since he aged-out with the Blue Knights in 2019, Caleb transitioned to join the staff at the Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps as the Leadership Director and Drum Major staff. Outside of the marching arts, he resides in Phoenix, Arizona where he enjoys spending time with his dog, hiking, and working on cars.

Leadership Coordinator

CALEB FLORENCE

Jed Weeks was a part of the Blue Knights organization from 2010-2018, serving as Program Coordinator from  2014-2018. In 2013 he served on the design team as Audio-Visual Coordinator. From 2010-2012 he was a Brass consultant/Assistant Caption Head. Before that he was on the brass staff for the Santa Clara Vanguard from 1996-2003, serving as the brass caption head from 2002-2003. He was also a member of the Cavaliers brass staff in  1994, and the Sky Ryders in 1991.

Mr. Weeks has recently retired after 27 years as a Band Director in Texas. He was the Director of Bands at Byron  Nelson High School in Trophy Club, Texas from 2010-2022. During his time at BNHS, he was the Director of the Marching Band, Wind Ensemble, and Co-Director of the BNHS Symphony Orchestra. During the 2021-2022 school  year, the BNHS Symphony Orchestra was invited to both the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic in Chicago, and the  Texas Music Educators Association Convention in San Antonio to perform at both of these prestigious events in the  same school year. Previously he was the Director of Bands at Colleyville Heritage High School in Grapevine Colleyville ISD from 2004-2010.

Prior to his appointment to CHHS, Mr. Weeks was the associate director of bands at Richland High School in North Richland Hills, Texas from 1999-2004. He was also associate director of bands at Berkner High  School in Richardson, Texas from 1998-1999, and Clements High School in Sugarland, Texas from 1995-1998. He served as a substitute musician for the Houston Symphony Orchestra and San Antonio Symphony Orchestra on  Trombone from 1995-1998. 

Mr. Weeks earned two degrees from The University of Houston: Bachelor of Music Education in 1994 and Master in  Applied Music (Trombone) in 1998. He was a Graduate Assistant at the University of Houston in 1994-1995. He was  also fortunate to work with numerous Houston area band programs such as Westfield High School and Langham  Creek High School as a private instructor and marching instructor while earning his college degrees. 

Mr. Weeks continues to be an active clinician, judge, coordinator, and designer for bands across the United States.  His professional affiliations include the Texas Music Educators Association, Texas Bandmasters Association, and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia. He currently resides in Roanoke, Texas with his wife Mary and sons Cameron and Ethan.

Program Coordinator

JED WEEKS

Jeff Ausdemore currently serves as President and Co-Founder of Stryvemind.com, a revolutionary online music education platform that impacts students and educators around the world. This venture serves student musicians, music educators and administrators in several capacities, including educational consulting, as well as the Stryve Academy. In addition, Jeff serves as the President of Ausdemore Music, a proprietary composition and arranging house for Mr. Ausdemore’s music catalog, published through Tapspace Publications. Jeff will be returning to his role of percussion supervisor / composer and music consultant for the Blue Knights drum and bugle corps from Denver, Colorado. Mr. Ausdemore also serves as a faculty member at Texas A&M University- Commerce as adjunct professor of percussion, where he teaches lessons as well as technique and pedagogy classes. Most recently, Mr. Ausdemore has released his first book; “Breathe, Grow, Share Fostering Student Impact Through the Lens of a Music Teacher’s Best Life” through Ausdemore Music and Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing. In addition to teaching/performing, Mr. Ausdemore has composed/arranged, instructed and consulted with numerous Drum Corps International drum and bugle corps, college marching bands, and high school marching bands throughout the United States, including the Blue Knights, Cavaliers, Phantom Regiment, Limited Edition, Northern Aurora, and Southwind.  Mr. Ausdemore’s professional affiliations have included adjudication roles for Drum Corps International, Winter Guard International, Bands of America, a percussion committee member for the Percussive Arts Society, the Texas Music Educators Association, the Texas Bandmasters Association, and the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers, and currently serves as the current Vice President of Percussion and Winds on the executive board of the North Texas Color Guard Association.

Percussion Supervisor

JEFF AUSDEMORE

Leslie Gilreath is Director of Bands at Summerville High School in Summerville, SC. A native of Anderson, SC, he is a 1990 graduate of Furman University where he studied conducting and orchestration with Jay Bocook. Following graduation from Furman, he continued studies in composition at the University of Oklahoma, with Michael Hennagin and Carolyn Bremer. His compositions have been performed globally and most notably at the prestigious Midwest Clinic.

In 2018, his “Only Light, Only Love” was performed at the Midwest Clinic by the Cobb Wind Symphony, Alfred Watkins, conductor, and “In My Perfect Place” was performed by the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Wind Symphony, Alex Kaminski, conductor. In December, the Wando High School Symphonic Band, Bobby Lambert and Lanie Radecke, conductors, will premier his “From Whence They Came” at the 2019 Midwest Clinic. Leslie is a recipient of Citations of Excellence as well as Certificates of Merit for Marching Excellence from the National Band Association and was the Phi Beta Mu, Theta Chapter’s Outstanding Bandsman of 2019.

He is a Summerville High School Teacher of the Year and a Dorchester District Two Honor Teacher of the Year, and he currently serves as Chair of the Marching Committee of the South Carolina Band Directors Association. His compositions are available from C. Alan Publications and on lesliegilreath.com.

“I look forward to working closely with my mentor, teacher, and dear friend, Jay Bocook, in continuing the Blue Knights’ dedication to musical excellence and contributing to their fresh, forward-thinking perspective. I am beyond excited to be a part of the organization!”

Brass Arranger

LESLIE GILREATH

Jay is a native of Clearwater, Fl., a Furman University graduate and anJayBocook_finals2013 internationally-recognized composer, arranger, conductor and educator. Jay’s work has been heard during the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games in Atlanta and the 2002 Winter Olympic Games in Salt Lake City.

In the summer of 2003, his music transcriptions of noted film composer John Williams were premiered by the U.S. Marine Band in a concert at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. and conducted by Williams himself. An encore performance featuring Mr. Williams and the “President’s Own” took place in the summer of 2008.

In addition, Jay was a contributing arranger to a new musical, CyberJam, which opened at the Queen’s Theater in London to rave reviews in the fall of 2003. His arrangements were also featured in “Mix,” which opened in the fall of 2008 in Japan. In 1982, Jay was appointed Director of Bands at Furman University where remained until 1989. He rejoined the Furman faculty in 2000 as Director of Athletic Bands. He has served as Assistant Conductor of the Greenville Symphony Orchestra and remains a principal composer and arranger for the Hal Leonard Corporation, where he has published over 600 compositions and arrangements.

In 2009, Jay was inducted into the Drum Corps International Hall of Fame. He is also a member of the American Bandmasters Association and a 2010 inductee to the South Carolina Band Directors Hall of Fame.

Design Consultant

JAY BOCOOK

James Catherall is a composer, arranger, music educator, and performer currently living in Southern California.

James began his marching career at Esperanza High School in 2006 and graduated in 2010. He continued performing and competing through Drum Corps International and Winter Guard International. His first year marching was with the Santa Clara Vanguard Cadets playing the glockenspiel in the front ensemble in 2008. James then shifted into playing the tenor drums and continued marching in SCVC in 2009 and 2010. Following that, he played one season with the Colts from Dubuque, Iowa on tenor drums. Afterward, in 2012, he went on to march with the Santa Clara Vanguard. James ended the last two years of his DCI career with the Blue Devils, serving as the quad section leader in 2014. During his time in DCI, James competed in the I&E solo competition on quads; receiving 4th place in 2013, and 2nd place in 2014. James marched in WGI starting in 2011 with Pulse Open, now known as POW, then with Pulse in 2012. He performed his final 3 years in WGI from 2013 – 2015 with RCC.

James has performed in different groups that have played for the Los Angeles Clippers and numerous other venues across the country. He also was a member of the drumline that recorded for the Pixar movie Monsters University.

In his professional career, James has experience in Sound Design, Percussion Composition/Arrangement, and Winds Composition/Arrangement. He has written music for multiple high schools and independent ensembles across the United States including the 2022 WGI Independent Open Silver Medalist, Civitas Independent. James gives clinics on electronics and MainStage integration at events such as WGICon and Arcadia Music & Arts Symposium.

As an educator, James has worked with various high schools and independent ensembles including Arcadia High School, Pulse Percussion, Broken City Percussion, and Canyon High School. He is currently serving as the Front Ensemble Caption Head for Vessel Indoor Percussion.

James Catherall - Sound Designer & Audio Caption Head

JAMES CATHERALL

Tony has spent the past two DCI seasons serving on the design team and Audio Caption Supervisor for Carolina Crown. He currently serves on the design team for United Percussion World and UP2 where he shares multiple roles, including: creative design, sound design, and arranger. He recently completed a twenty-four year tenure as the co-music arranger/show designer for the Petal High School marching band in Petal, Mississippi and is the director and show designer for the Petal Indoor Percussion Theatre, a national WGI Percussion Scholastic World Class Finalist. He has twice been awarded the Outstanding Junior High Director of the Southeast Mississippi Band Directors Association and the 2008 Mississippi Bandmasters Association AE McClain Outstanding Young Band Director Award. Tony was also the Founder and Director of Eminence Indoor Percussion Ensemble (2003-2005), a regional and national WGI Open Class finalist and championship ensemble.

Tony holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from the University of Southern Mississippi and a Certification in 3D Architectural Rendering from The 3D Training Institute of New York. He was a member and principal percussionist in the world renowned Southern Miss Wind Ensemble and Southern Miss Symphony Orchestra. While at Southern Miss, Tony was the percussion arranger for the Pride of Mississippi Marching Band and USM indoor percussion ensemble. Tony was also a member of the World Champion Star of Indiana Drum and Bugle Corps (Bloomington, IN) from 1991-1993. In his three years of DCI experience, he won the DCI-Midwest Solo Timpani Champion and the 1994 Percussive Arts Society International Solo Timpani Award. Tony’s original marimba composition “Of Thoughts and Thinking” has become a standard in percussion literature. The piece was most recently recorded by German percussion artist Cornelia Monkse on the CD “Marimba 2” and was featured in the French documentary film “Le Ciel.”

After college, Tony pursued a professional performance career for eight years with the pop/rock band King Konga . While with King Konga, Tony toured the world selling out venues nationwide. The group did a post September 11th USO tour for the U.S. Military in Hawaii and South East Asia. The four-piece band gained critical acclaim reaching #81 on the AC Hot 100 Pop Charts with “Something Good.” With a rare accomplishment by an independent band, King Konga captured the eyes and ears of many major record labels and the band went on to perform at Woodstock ’99. Tony has also performed with The Mississippi Symphony, Mobile Opera, Hattiesburg Civic Light Opera and The Meistersingers Orchestral/Choral Ensemble.

He has also served as Sound Designer for The Madison Scouts Drum and Bugle Corps in 2018 and Creative Designer for Pacific Crest Drum and Bugle Corps 2019-2020. In the WGI arena, Tony has contributed to creative and aesthetic design with Pulse Percussion, POW, Chino Hills HS, Vision Percussion, United Percussion World, UP2, and feniX Independent World Guard. He is the owner of Eidetic Creative, a multimedia creative designs solution business. He currently resides in Petal, Mississippi with his wife Emily and 16-year-old daughter Colette.

Quotes from Tony:

“It is a tremendous honor to step into this role at such a storied drum corps with a rich history of excellence. The possibilities of Blue Knights growth is infinite with the assembling of this new team of like minds.”

“The most exciting part of this new journey is being a part of a creative team building on the decades of success Blue Knights has established and also creating new perspectives on BK’s identity. A task I hold with the utmost respect and enthusiasm.”

Quote from Daniel:

“We couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome Tony Lymon to the Blue Knights family as our new Artistic Lead. Tony’s impressive and diverse background in music, design, and performance brings a wealth of experience and creativity. His dedication to the craft, evident in his years of service in the marching arts, aligns perfectly with the Blue Knights’ commitment to excellence.

As we embark on this exciting journey with Tony, we are confident that his informed perspective and innovative ideas will not only build on our storied legacy but also propel us into a bright and dynamic future. Tony’s authenticity and positive energy are contagious, and we believe his presence will not only enhance our creative team but also inspire our members to reach new heights.”

Tony Lymon - Artistic Lead

TONY LYMON

Noe Gomez is a lifelong resident of Los Angeles, California and prolific educator and designer within the marching arts. He has over seven years of performance experience, including Impulse, Santa Clara Vanguard Cadets, and half of a decade with the Santa Clara Vanguard, where he served as drum major from 2012 to 2015.

Noe is immersed in the upper echelons of the marching arts, as he is a full time visual designer, judge, and clinician for both high school bands and independent programs. Noe served on the visual staff and as Assistant Visual Caption head of the Santa Clara Vanguard. He is on the design team at Pulse Percussion, POW Percussion, Flux Indoor Percussion, Arcadia High School and many more. Noe is currently the Visual Caption Manager at Arcadia High School. Noe served as the Visual Design Assistant for the Phantom Regiment Drum and Bugle Corps in 2023. He is also an advisor to the Color Guard Alliance of the Philippines and Impulso Marching Latino America.

As a designer, Noe prides himself on creating a cohesive visual package–one that is musically reflective, exciting, achievable, and fresh. He is passionate about cultivating a musical landscape that allows the performers to sound their best and integration that positively highlights the color guard. Noe upholds professionalism and communication as core elements of his work with all programs.

Visual Design

NOE GOMEZ

Rosie Queen is a seasoned figure in the world of pageantry since 1983. For 16 impactful years, she directed Carmel H.S., transforming it into a powerhouse that clinched 5 WGI World Championships, 8 IHSCGA State Championships, and 5 BOA Grand National titles.

Rosie’s influence extends to world-class programs like Pride of Cincinnati, Center Grove H.S., Aimachi, Avon H.S., Carroll H.S., Bluecoats Indoor, and Escapade WG. Notably, she led the visual aspects of the Emmy and Tony award-winning production, “blast!” from 1999-2002. Her expertise also reached Drum Corps International (DCI), contributing to The Bluecoats, The Cadets of Bergen County, Cavaliers, Carolina Crown, and Madison Scouts.

Beyond accolades, Rosie is passionate about “teaching the teachers,” evident in her role as Education Director for the WGASC (Winter Guard Association of Southern California) circuit. She’s a key player in Winter Guard International (WGI), serving on the advisory board, WGI Board of Directors (since 2010), and as the WGI Executive Board’s secretary since 2014.

The WGI Hall of Fame welcomed her in 2023.

Recently making the move from Indianapolis to Southern California with her husband, Jeff, and their dog, Indy, Rosie continues to impact teaching, designing, and adjudicating. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education (K-12) from Wright State University and is certified in Event Management from IUPUI in Indianapolis.

Design Consultant

ROSIE MILLER QUEEN

James Gabonay has had a lifelong passion for Color Guard beginning with his career as a performer at Norwin High School and later as a member of the Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps. From there, James transitioned to become both a designer and educator for many award winning programs including Spirit of Atlanta (2019-2021), Norwin High School (10 Time WGI Scholastic World Finalist, 2021 BOA Grand National AA Champion), Collage Winter Guard (2022 WGI Ind. A Class Finalists), Gateway High School (2014 Scholastic A WGI Finalist), and many others.

James served as the caption head for the 2023 season and has now moved into the role of Color Guard Designer for the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps. He holds a dual degree from the University of Pittsburgh in Social Studies Education and History. While not spending time with his dog Prince, James is a Geography teacher at Seven Lakes High School in Katy, Texas, where he also serves as the Color Guard Coordinator. He is currently the owner of JDGDesigns, where he continues to work with multiple pageantry organizations across the country and serves as a sales representative for Prop Vinyls. 

Color Guard Designer

JAMES GABONAY

Mason Barnes is a Jackson, MS native currently living in Houston, TX. He currently serves as the color guard director at William B Travis HS (Richmond, TX) and works with a number of local and national groups including Seven Lakes HS (Katy, TX), Cy-Fair HS (Cypress, TX), Horizon HS (Orlando, FL), Collage Winter Guard (Akron, OH), Third Coast Independent (Houston, TX), and Eklipse Winter Guard (Nashville, TN). His previous teaching and performance experiences include Paramount Winter Guard (Atlanta, GA), Edge Independent (Suwannee, GA), Ola HS (McDonough, GA), Mill Creek HS (Hotchson, GA), Munford HS (Munford, TN), Kennesaw Mountain HS (Kennesaw, GA), Music City Drum and Bugle Corps (Nashville, TN), Troopers Drum Corps (Casper, WY), and Madison Scouts (Madison, WI). In his free time Mason enjoys spending time with friends and his pup Bristol. Mason is excited to be returning to Blue Knights for his fourth summer!

Color Guard Caption Head and Choreographer

MASON BARNES

Meredith Owen is entering her fourth year with the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps. Her marching experience includes The Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps (2015, 2016) and Conversion Winterguard (2015-2018, 2020). She has had the privilege of working with many programs including Ridgeland High School (2014), Petal High School (2015-2020), Jordan High School (2020-2022), Louisiana Stars Drum and Bugle Corps (2017-2020), and the Scholastic World Finalist Petal Indoor Percussion Theatre (2016-2022).

Outside of colorguard, Meredith enjoys traveling, spending time with friends, family, and her dog, Merle. She holds a Bachelor of Liberal Science from the University of Southern Mississippi and is pursuing a Master’s of Science in Higher Education from Purdue Global University. Currently, she resides in Hattiesburg, Mississippi with her bestie, Chad Hanes, and is the Colorguard Director at Jones College.

Color Guard Caption Manager

MEREDITH OWEN

Geoff Longo is originally from Colorado where his performance career began at a very young age under the strong influence of his parents and their passion for the arts. Starting off as a national champion gymnast at age 11, dancing, singing, and acting, were a part of his everyday life.

In 2008, Geoff graduated from The American Musical and Dramatic Academy focusing on TV/film acting, stage combat, dance, and voice production/speech. He spend the next decade in LA working as an actor, and teaching Color Guard. He spent three seasons marching with The Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps (2008-2010), and marched one season with Corona (2009), and The Pride of Cincinnati (2015). Geoff spent three summers (2011-2013) with The Mandarins Drum and Bugle Corps on staff and as their color guard caption head and visual designer. He spent eight years (2009-2016) on staff with the Arcadia HS as a primary choreographer, technician, and designer. He spent 9 years (2014-2022) on staff with The Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps in various roles from technician, choreographer, and designer. Currently, he is one of the Color Guard designers and lead choreographer for The Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps.

He has taught, consulted, designed and collaborated with many successful high schools and independent organizations around the world including, Air Academy HS (CO), Liberty HS (CO), Rampart HS (CO), Opus X World (CO), Avidity Independent (MO), Maysville HS (MO), MBI Winter Guard (MN), Emanon World (NJ), Collage Winter Guard (OH), The Blackwatch (NJ), Dawson HS (TX), Eastlake HS (TX), Seven Lakes HS (TX), Klein Oak HS (TX), and Third Coast Independent (TX). He traveled to Bahrain with Ascend Performing Arts serving as the Color Guard supervisor where the group performed for the F1 Grand Prix Opening Ceremony in 2017. In 2018, he traveled to Indonesia, where he spent time working with the NSDQ Drum and Bugle Corps helping them secure another Championship.

Geoff continues to be recognizably sought-after by numerous groups all over the country. His vast experience and knowledge, his choreographic abilities, and his passion for providing his very best are all trademarks that keep him high in-demand. Outside of Color Guard, Geoff is studying Graphic Design at Arizona State University and can always be found with coffee in hand. He loves spending valued time with his family, his partner Austin, and his close friends, enjoying the outdoors and traveling all over the world.

Color Guard Choreographer Coordinator

GEOFF LONGO

Drake Parrott is originally from Crossville, TN and currently resides in Houston, TX. Drake studied modern and aerial dance at East Tennessee State University, where he received his B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies in Theatre and Dance in 2018. Drake has enjoyed performing both on the stage, street, ground, and air with Mountain Movers Dance Company for many years throughout Northeast TN and has presented choreography in various venues in Tennessee, Texas, and other states. He has also studied with the American Dance Festival (Durham, NC) and Aerial Dance Festival (Boulder, CO) under Nancy Smith. Before moving across the country, Drake taught aerial and modern dance at Azure Aerial Arts and Night Owl Circus Arts in Johnson City, Tennessee. In North Carolina, Drake performed with ShaLeigh Dance Works and is still part of the ShaGa Teacher Training Program. Drake recently graduated from the University of Northern Colorado in 2022 with an MA in Dance Education. He currently teaches aerial dance at Texas Circus and Aerial and performs with Fenyx Aerial and JD Entertainment on the occasion.

 

Drake’s interest in colorguard began when he played with his mom’s old flag in the garage when he was a tiny tot, and he knew that he wanted to one day learn more. Many years later, he stumbled into Southeast Independent in Kingsport, TN, where he found a love and passion for this activity. From there, he performed with Aria Winterguard (Greensboro, NC), Carolina Gold Drum and Bugle Corps (Raleigh, NC), and Legacy Independent presented by Carolina Gold (Raleigh, NC), and Paramount. Drake is thankful and appreciative of all of the educators that have helped him on his pageantry journey and is appreciative of the community that this activity provides.

 

Drake has also been fortunate to teach in a variety of locations and is thankful for the lessons each experience has provided, meeting many wonderful people along the way. Past educational credits include Sullivan South HS (TN), Science Hill HS (TN), Cary HS (NC), Corinth Holders HS (NC), Athens Drive HS (NC), and Carolina Gold Drum and Bugle Corps (NC).

 

Since moving to Texas, Drake was the director of Cypress Creek HS from 2021-2023, and is a choreographer at William B Travis HS and Seven Lakes HS. He is currently piloting the inaugural colorguard program at Dulles HS. Drake is excited to be back for his third season as the movement specialist for the Blue Knights Color Guard!

Movement Choreographer

DRAKE PARROTT

Marianna Barclay started her colorguard career almost 20 years ago. She has spun with the University of Alabama Alta Marea, Amor winter guard (Tuscaloosa), Phantom Regiment, and Paramount Winterguard. Her education experience includes a range of high school and independent groups from the southern region, the Crossmen Drum and Bugle Corps, Pacific Crest, and the Blue Knights. Outside of colorguard, Marianna lives with her partner and fur babies in Denver, Colorado. She is a high school educator teaching Weight Training. Marianna is also a personal trainer and owner of Marching Arts Wellness. Mental and physical wellness for all marching members is a vital tool for a positive member experience, and Marianna is excited to work with the Blue Knights for a fourth summer in this capacity.

Color Guard Health and Wellness Specialist and Technician

MARIANNA BARCLAY

Kris been involved in the marching arts for over 14 years, having performed in groups such as Eklipse Winterguard, The Cavaliers, and is currently performing in his 8th year with Paramount Winterguard in Atlanta Georgia, and has taught various groups through Tennessee and Georgia. Kris is very excited to return for his second year as part of the Blue Knights Colorguard staff, eager to continue to grow and work alongside the other members of this incredible team!

Technician and Choreographer

KRIS HARRIS

 Chad was born and raised in central Mississippi where he was first introduced to band and color guard. He spent 4 years in his high school winter guard program and 3 in the fall marching season. He has also performed and total of 6 seasons at world class organizations, Cavaliers 2016-2019 and Paramount Winterguard 2018 and this 2024 season. He is so happy to be entering his 4th year teaching at Blue Knights. His other teaching experience includes Clinton High School from Clinton,MS, Hernando High School from Hernando, MS, and the Jones College color guard. He currently resides in Hattiesburg, MS with his bestie and assistant caption head Meredith Owen. Outside of color guard, Chad enjoys spending time with friends, being outside, and loves himself a good puzzle. He is currently studying Kinesiology at the University of Southern Mississippi in order to one day go to Athletic Training school and become an Athletic Trainer.

Equipment Technician

CHAD HANES

Katrina Latshaw is an elementary and performing arts educator residing in Katy, Texas where she teaches Elementary Literacy and Social Studies. Katrina is the Director of the Seven Lakes High School Colorguard and has been with the program for 5 years. Her colorguard marching experience includes Troopers Drum and Bugle Corps (2014-2018), Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps (2019), UCF Pegasus Open (2016) and UCF Pegasus World (2017, 2020). Katrina has taught with Genesis Drum and Bugle Corps, and the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps.

Technician

KAT LATSHAW

Andrew Seabran is looking forward to working with the Blue Knights Color Guard!

Technician

ANDREW SEEBARAN

Originally from Columbia, SC and currently living near Charleston, SC. I graduated from the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education and I am finishing my third year teaching instrumental music at Windsor Hill Arts Infused Elementary School. I am also working with the Wando High School 5A State Champion Marching Band! Some fun things about me are that I am a classically trained singer who loves to travel, create, and perform more than anything!

Technician

CRYSTA CALDWELL

Shana is a Louisiana native, but has lived all over the country and has called the Houston, TX area home for the last 11 years. She has worked with numerous Houston area color guards including Magnolia West HS, Magnolia HS, Cy-Fair HS, George Bush HS, and Seven Lakes HS. Her work in drum corps and the independent realm includes Guardians Drum and Bugle Corps, Music City, Spirit Independent, and Third Coast Independent. Shana currently serves as the Assistant Director at Third Coast and is pursuing her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. Outside of color guard, she loves to spend time with her friends, family and her dogs.

Technician

SHANA SALTER

Cleo Washington has experience from Blue Knights, marching from 2019-2022 aging out with the corps. She has also marched with Malachi open, and world teams during her independent career, taking some time off to focus on college after 10 years with the organization. After aging out, she was on staff at the Troopers based out of Casper, Wyoming. She is currently studying dance and anthropology at the University of Colorado Boulder, and is excited to be back teaching with her family, the Blue Knights.

Technician

CLEO WASHINGTON

Katelynn started her colorguard career in her hometown of Norwich, CT., where she was first introduced to the marching arts, and where she spent 3 years performing with her HS programs. During and after high school, Katelynn continued to march several independent programs including 7th Regiment 2015-2018 (serving as captain 2018), Blue Knights 2019-2021 (serving as captain 2020-2021), University of New Haven Winter Guard 2018-2020, and Fusion Winter Guard 2021-Present. She has taught several scholastic and independent groups including Plainfield HS (Plainfield, CT), Masuk HS (Seymour, CT), Sacred Heart University (Fairfield, CT), Jersey Surf Drum & Bugle Corps (Camden County, NJ) and is currently enjoying the fall seasons with Sheehan HS Color Guard (Wallingford, CT), and University of New Haven Color Guard (West Haven, CT). She is currently residing in New Haven, CT and working for her family business, while spending her free time crafting, cooking, and spending time with friends. Katelynn is so excited to be back with the Blue Knights Color Guard! 

Technician

KATELYNN HYDE

Thomas Kober is the Director of Bands at William J. Brennan High School in San Antonio, Texas and currently holds the positions of Ensemble Coordinator and Brass Caption Head with the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps. During his tenure at Brennan High School, he has spearheaded a band program that has consistently achieved a distinguished reputation for excellence. The program has garnered numerous accolades, including a near-decade of superior ratings, best in class distinctions, and championship titles at district, regional, area, statewide, and national events. The band is recognized as both a TMEA Area Honor Band Finalist and a UIL Area Marching Band Finalist, in addition to being honored as a National Featured Band at the Music for All National Festival in both 2020 and 2023.

Before assuming his roles with the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps, Mr. Kober built an extensive and impressive background in Drum Corps International (DCI) and Winterguard International (WGI). Notably, he served as the Music Caption Head of the Blue Knights Winds, leading the ensemble to a Silver Medal at WGI Finals in Dayton, Ohio. Preceding his tenure with the Blue Knights Winds, he contributed to the music instructional staff of the Santa Clara Vanguard and Boston Crusaders Drum and Bugle Corps.

Mr. Kober is also an active clinician, judge, program coordinator, and designer, offering his expertise to bands across the United States. His professional affiliations include membership in the Texas Music Educators Association and the Texas Bandmasters Association. As an alumnus of the Blue Knights, he takes immense pride in the achievements of the organization in 2023, which secured a return to DCI World Class Finals, and is enthusiastic about his ongoing collaboration with his ‘home team’ and the exceptional educators and students within it.

Brass Caption Head

THOMAS KOBER

Mr. Shawn Murphy is the Director of Bands at Vista Ridge High School in Leander, Texas! Prior to this, Mr. Murphy was the Director of Bands for Liberty Hill High School, a position he began in 2021. Under his direction, the band has experienced tremendous growth in both size and skill, and in 2022 was crowned UIL 5A Area H Champions.

Mr. Murphy’s previous bands have won numerous UIL awards, advanced to the UIL State Marching Contest on several occasions and been named a finalist for the TMEA Honor Band competition, among many other accolades throughout his 20+ year teaching career. He attributes his success to the lessons learned from his many mentors who molded him, specifically Don Hanna and Ray Stanizewski, Mr. Murphy’s high school band directors at Denton High School.

Mr. Murphy is a proud alumnus of Drum Corps International, having marched with the Sky Ryders based out of Texas, and The Blue Devils from California. After aging out of the activity, he served on the brass staffs of Blue Devils B, Cadets, Blue Knights, Blue Devils, Santa Clara Vanguard, and Mandarins.

Mr. Murphy has been married to his beautiful wife Kim Murphy since 2002, and has two amazing sons, Mason & Hayden, two rambunctious Siberian Huskies, Daphnis and Chloe, and two crazy cats, Cocoa and Mello. Mr. Murphy spends his summers mountain biking, playing disc golf, and traveling around the country with his family.

Brass Consultant

SHAWN MURPHY

Anthony Cruddas currently serves as a brass instructor and educational consultant for the Blue Stars Drum & Bugle Corps (LaCrosse, WI), Genesis (Austin, TX), and the Blue Knights (Denver, CO). Previously, Anthony has been on the music education teams of the Boston Crusaders (Boston, MA), Crossmen (San Antonio, TX), Troopers (Casper, WY), Revolution (San Antonio, TX), and Trinity (Seguin, TX).

Anthony resides in Dallas/Ft. Worth where he works in management and business operations, and maintains an active schedule as an ensemble clinician and adjudicator for music programs in all classifications throughout the United States.

Brass Consultant

ANTHONY CRUDDAS

Amanda Stevenson is the Director of Bands at Winston Churchill High School in San Antonio, TX. Throughout her career she has instructed various students in music ranging from beginners to collegiate members. Ms. Stevenson has been with the Winston Churchill High School music program as Conductor of the Wind Ensemble, Director of Jazz Studies, Director of the Charger Marching Band and instructor of Instrumental Ensembles since Fall 2019. She is the first Female Head Band Director in Churchill High School history and the first 6A Female Head Band Director in the history of North East Independent School District. Prior to her time at Churchill, Amanda was the Director of Bands at Taft High School since 2015 and Associate Band Director at Georgetown High School since 2007.

Amanda has a strong affiliation with Drum Corps International (DCI).  She is currently a Brass Consultant for Blue Knights Drum and Bugle corps, Brass Staff for the Mandarins Drum and Bugle Corps and a Brass Consultant for Genesis Drum and Bugle Corps. She has also served on Brass Staff for the Troopers, Crossmen and Phantom Regiment Drum and Bugle Corps and was a Visual Staff Instructor with Revolution Drum and Bugle Corps.  Though her primary instrument is Saxophone, Ms. Stevenson played Euphonium with Capital Regiment and started her corps career on Baritone with Revolution Drum and Bugle Corps.  Through these experiences, she has worked with many top educators throughout the country.

Ms. Stevenson received her Bachelor Degree in All-Level Music Education from Texas State University in 2007.  She studied Wind Conducting with John Stansberry, Howard Hudiburg and Dr. Rod Schueller.  Amanda has continued a close relationship with the School of Music as the Texas State Summer Band Camp Coordinator for about a decade.

Since her time at Texas State, Ms. Stevenson has had continued success with Superior Ratings at the University Interscholastic League Concert, Sightreading and Marching Contests as well as top performances at Bands of America, Jazz Festivals, and National Wind Ensemble showcases. She has been a Texas Music Educator Association Clinician, has had her Wind Ensemble selected as convention performance groups, has been the recipient of numerous grants for her programs and has achieved the Mark of Excellence in National Jazz Honors Award.

Ms. Stevenson is an active clinician, performer and adjudicator in the United States.  Her professional affiliations include Texas Music Educators Association, Texas Bandmasters Association, Texas Jazz Educators Association, and Sigma Alpha Iota.  Amanda currently lives in San Antonio, Texas where she continues to educate and instruct students of all levels.

Brass Consultant

AMANDA STEVENSON

Jake Waldrop is an active brass teacher in the San Antonio area. He received his undergraduate degree in Commercial and Electronic Music from Western Carolina University where he spent three years with the Pride of the Mountains marching band. In 2015 he obtained his Masters of Music in Trumpet Performance from Oklahoma City University. Jake marched for the Blue Knights in 2011 and 2012 and was a member of the 2023 brass staff.

Brass Staff

JAKE WALDROP

Max Muciño is the associate director of bands and director of the jazz band at Santa Fe Middle School in Cleveland Texas. Previously, Mr. Muciño worked in Nacogdoches ISD as the head director for McMichael Middle School’s 2021-2022 school year.  During this time, his band earned first division sweepstakes at their UIL Concert and Sightreading contest.
Mr. Muciño has also served as adjunct professor of instrumental music at Stephen F. Austin State University and Navarro College. In addition to these appointments, he maintains a private studio and an active schedule as a guest artist, clinician, and soloist.
Mr. Muciño earned his degrees from Weatherford College (A.A.),Texas Wesleyan University (B.A.), and Stephen F. Austin State University (M.M.). His primary teachers include Dr. Jacob Walburn, Dr. Jerome Biershenk, Ron Puckett, Larry Harrison, and Beth Losos.  Mr. Muciño also received coaching and mentorship from Dr. Charles “Chuck” Tumlinson, Joel Adair, Cal Lewiston, Dutch Ode, Vurl Bland, and Lou Carfa.
Based in Houston, TX, Mr. Muciño maintains an active schedule as a freelance musician, recording artist, and horn arranger for rock and top 40 bands. He has performed with groups such as the Jordan Kahn Music Company, Legacy Brass Quintet, Longview Symphony Orchestra, Uptown Theatre pit orchestra, Sounds of Swing big band, Brick Street Blues Band, numerous top 40 groups and several mariachi bands. He is also the band leader and founder of the Old Town Brass Band, a New Orleans style dance band.
Mr Muciño participated with the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corp as a trumpet player during the 2009, and 2011 seasons..  He is excited to rejoin his friends and colleagues for his second year as a member of the brass education team.
In his leisure time, Max enjoys riding motorcycles and playing video games with his daughter.
Brass Staff

MACEDONIO 'MAX' MUCIÑO

Amanda Hernandez Hunt is a former music teacher in the El Paso area. During her time as a music teacher, Amanda served a key role in Socorro Independent School District initiatives as an Elementary Music Specialist. Her contributions include establishing the district’s first homogenous beginning band program, creating the first Dual Language Elementary Academy music curriculum, and opening the Paso Del Norte Fine Arts Academy. Amanda also served as a band director at Sun Ridge Middle School, leading the program to new accolades. Amanda continues to work as a clinician, instructor, and media coordinator for many programs in the Southwest.

Amanda is a graduate of the University of New Mexico, where she studied horn under J.D. Shaw. During her time at UNM, she performed in the top ensembles including the Wind Symphony and Symphony Orchestra. As a performer, Amanda was a member of Pacific Crest, The Blue Knights, and The Troopers. She aged out with Bluecoats in 2011 as a mellophone soloist. Amanda has served on the instructional staff for Genesis, The Santa Clara Vanguard, and The Troopers. Most recently, Amanda served as a mellophone instructor for the 2023 Blue Knights.

Amanda is currently an Account Executive for a creative communications agency in El Paso. She is an active volunteer in the Junior League of El Paso, currently serving on the Community Research and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Committees. In her leisure time, Amanda is an avid archer and enjoys competing in archery events.

High Brass Instructor

AMANDA HERNANDEZ HUNT

Samantha Muckleroy is currently an Associate Director of Bands at Glenn High School in Leander, Texas. Before joining the team at Glenn, she taught for three years at Clear Falls High School in League City, Texas. During her time at Clear Falls, Ms. Muckleroy’s ensembles were consistently awarded Sweepstakes at UIL Concert and Sightreading contests and Area Finalists at the Area Marching Band Contest.

Prior to starting her career, Ms. Muckleroy attended Texas State University, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Studies. While at Texas State, she studied Horn under the direction of Dr. Caroline Steiger and performed with the Wind Symphony and Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Dr. Caroline Beatty and Dr. Jacob Harrison. She also performed in various ensembles including the Bobcat Marching Band, Basketball Band, Symphonic Band, and Concert Band.

Ms. Muckleroy participated as a performer in DCI with the 2017 Blue Knights and 2018 Blue Devils on mellophone. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, camping, playing with her cat, Indie, and spending time with loved ones. She is excited to be back with the Blue Knights and looks forward to a great season!

High Brass Instructor

SAMANTHA MUCKLEROY

Chris Garza is returning to the Blue Knights after being a member in 2012 and 2014. He attributes much of his success to the lessons and the impact that experience continues to have on him every day. In 2021 he spent his summer on brass staff with the Mandarins. In 2022 he joins the Blue Knights brass staff for the 2023 season, where he hopes to give back a fraction of what the drum corps has given to him.

Away from drum corps, Chris Garza is a band director in Allen ISD at Ereckson Middle School where he conducts 2 ensembles. He loves seeing his kids go on to join the “Allen Escadrille”, the largest marching band in all of the United States, and finds total joy in fostering a love for music and music education for all students.

Low Brass Staff

CHRIS GARZA

Louie Lugo originally hails from West Palm Beach, Florida. Louie performed lead baritone with the Concord Blue Devils. During his drum corps years at DCI’s Individual & Ensemble Competition, he earned 1st place in the Baritone, and 1st place in Mixed Ensemble competitions. Louie also participated in drum corps on the instructional side. He served as Brass Caption Head for the 2004 Court of Honor Drum and Bugle Corps from Atlanta, Georgia. That season, the corps placed 3rd in then-Division III competition and went undefeated in the brass caption. In 2005, Louie was asked to serve as Brass Caption Head for Teal Sound Drum and Bugle Corps from Jacksonville, Florida. That year, he and his team were able to lead the drum corps to a 3rd place in the brass caption (then-Division II).

Louie earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Jacksonville State University, and a Master of Music in Trombone Performance from Florida State University. Additionally, at FSU he completed coursework for a Doctor of Music in Trombone Performance (ABD) with emphases in Educational Psychology and Brass Pedagogy. Louie has performed in 40 states, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands. For several years, he taught several private studios in Georgia, Alabama, and Florida producing some of the region’s finest young low brass musicians ranging from 5th Grade through undergraduate college students. Among some of his students’ accolades include top placements in All-District, and All-State Bands, and a finalist in a solo competition at the International Trombone Festival. Louie is also a published arranger of trombone choir music through Kagarice Brass Editions (KBE). After several years as a professional musician, and music educator, Louie transitioned into the field of Human Resources.

Louie resides in Denver, Colorado with his wife Annie, and currently serves as Chief People Officer for Gallus Medical Detox Centers. He holds the highest level of HR certification, the SHRM-SCP. In his free time Louie enjoys paddle boarding, travel, and Buddhist meditation. He also has earned accolades in the bodybuilding activity, earning two Top 5 medals in NPC Men’s Physique bodybuilding competition.

Low Brass Instructor

LOUIE LUGO

Hannah Peterson is a music educator originally from Highlands Ranch, Colorado and is currently Associate Director of Bands at Fossil Ridge High School in Fort Collins, Colorado. Previously, she was one of the band directors at Liberty High School in Colorado Springs. Hannah received her Master of Music Education degree from the American Band College of Central Washington University and her Bachelor of Music Education from the University of Colorado in Boulder.

Hannah spent her drum corps career marching baritone with the Troopers Drum and Bugle Corps in 2017 and the Santa Clara Vanguard Drum and Bugle Corps in 2018. She served on the brass staff at the Santa Clara Vanguard Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps in 2022 and has been a member of the Blue Knights brass staff since the 2023 season.

In her free time, Hannah likes to go camping and play board games with her friends and hang out with her cats Mist and Freya. Hannah is excited to be back with the Blue Knights this year!

Low Brass Instructor

HANNAH PETERSON

Trombonist and Educator Robert Soto is a native of El Paso, Texas. Robert has been active as a professional musician and teacher for the last twenty years, having performed and taught across the United States, Mexico, Canada, England and Brazil. He has worked with such artists as Sir Neville Marriner, Dave Taylor, Gary Foster, Brad Leali, Bill Reichenbach, Tito Puente Jr, Dave Brubeck, Alan Silvestri, Eric Nathan and Frank Ticheli to name a few. Robert has also recorded/performed with a variety of groups including the El Paso Wind Symphony, Long Beach Symphony, Golden State Pops Symphony Orchestra, Clare Fischer/Brent Fischer Jazz Group, Elliot Deutsch Big Band, Conjunto Oye and on the IFC series Comedy Bang, Bang! He has performed with the Yale Philharmonia at the 50th Anniversary Celebration of the Hungarian Revolution at Carnegie Hall in NYC, Birmingham and Wigan Jazz Festivals in England, the International Association of Jazz Educators (IAJE) convention, the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) convention and the Music for All National Festival and Summer Symposium.

As a featured soloist, Robert has performed at the Texas Tech Big XII Trombone Conference, with the El Segundo Concert Band, Fullerton College Symphonic Winds, Southern California Trombone Day, and the William H. Taft Wind Ensemble. Robert has been in demand as a freelance trombonist, private instructor, conductor and guest clinician. He has worked with a variety of music programs ranging from beginning bands, middle school/high school ensembles, college/university groups and community bands. Mr. Soto has been a member of the Western Band Association, Southern California Scholastic Band Orchestra Association, International Trombone Association, and the Texas Music Educators Association. His students and ensembles have received numerous recognitions from scholarships to leading university music programs to consecutive festival and UIL sweepstakes awards. Robert has presented clinics at

TMEA and serves as an active adjudicator in Region 29/Area H. In addition to his program work, Robert has served on the brass staffs for: Chino Hills High School, Ruben S. Ayala High School, Blue Knights, Sacramento Mandarins, Cavaliers, Boston Crusaders and The Battalion Drum & Bugle Corps. Robert holds a Bachelor in Music Education (Cum Laude) from the University of Texas at El Paso and a Master in Music Performance from Yale University, School of Music. He has studied trombone with Scott Hartman, Steve Norrell, John Lofton, Steve Wilson, Allan Kaplan and Robert Melendez. His conducting studies were with Dr. Ron Hufstader and Maestro Toshiyuki Shimada. In 2013, Robert was selected as a performer for the Pokorny Low Brass Seminar, where he studied with members of the Los Angeles, San Francisco, Detroit and Chicago Symphony Orchestras. Robert has served as the trombone faculty at Fullerton College, Cal Poly Pomona University, and as Director of Bands at Norte Vista High School, El Segundo Middle School/High School.

Currently, Robert is one of the Associate Directors of Bands at William H. Taft High School in San Antonio, Texas. He also serves as the low brass instructor for Schreiner University in Kerrville, TX. Off the podium, Robert devotes his time with his beautiful wife April, their children Camila and Alexander, and their furry kids too. Mr. Soto is excited to be returning to Blue Knights as a member of the brass instructional staff. Mr. Soto is a performing artist for Yamaha Corporation of America and performs on Yamaha trombones exclusively.

Low Brass Instructor

ROBERT SOTO

Tristan Peterson currently serves as the Director of Bands at Fort Lupton High School, located in Fort Lupton, Colorado. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education and a Bachelor’s degree in Music Performance from the University of Colorado, and he completed his Master’s degree through the American Band College program at Central Washington University.

Upon his graduation in 2020, Tristan embarked on his teaching career as the instrumental music instructor at Galileo Middle School in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where he dedicated three years to fostering the development of middle school band and orchestra students.

He was a performer of the Blue Knights from 2015 to 2017 and the Santa Clara Vanguard in 2018 and 2019. Currently, he is a member of the Blue Knights Brass Staff for the 2023 season and is excited to return.

Tristan’s deep appreciation for Colorado is reflected in his personal life, where he enjoys spending quality time with his wife, Hannah, and their two feline companions, Freya and Mist.

Low Brass Instructor

TRISTAN PETERSON

Shayla Le is the Associate Director of Bands at William J. Brennan High School in San Antonio, TX and is currently serving the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps as the Housing Director and Brass Staff Administrative Assistant. During her time at Brennan, all of her ensembles have received superior ratings, and the marching band has been a consistent district, region, and area finalist. In addition, her flute choir recently earned the distinction as a National Featured Chamber Ensemble for the Music For All Festival in 2023.

Ms. Le holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Oklahoma State University in Music Education. While enrolled at OSU, she performed on Clarinet and Bass Clarinet with the OSU Wind Ensemble, OSU Opera, and with the OSU Theatre Department in annual musicals. Ms. Le studied with Babette Belter and was selected to perform in master classes with Julian Bliss and Anthony McGill of the New York Philharmonic. She has also performed in featured ensembles at the Oklahoma Music Educators Conference (OKMEA). Natively from the Dallas Fort-Worth Metroplex, Ms. Le was a multi-year Texas Music Educator’s Association (TMEA) All-State Musician. She is very excited to be back with the Blue Knights this summer!

Housing Director

SHAYLA LE

Evan Allenson is a music educator from Louisville, Colorado and is currently Director of Bands at Aspen Creek K-8 in Broomfield, Colorado. In addition, Evan is an instructor with both Centaurus and Monarch High School bands and serves as Director of Choirs at Centaurus High School. Evan received his Bachelor of Music Education and Tuba Performance from the University of Colorado in Boulder.

Evan spent his drum corps career with the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps in 2017, 2018, and 2020, and as an alumni of the organization incredibly grateful to be able to give back as a member of the Blue Knights brass staff since 2023. Outside of music, Evan is an active outdoorsman enjoying hiking, camping, and fishing.

Low Brass Instructor

EVAN ALLENSON

Jake Archibeque currently resides in Fort Collins, Colorado, and attends Colorado State University, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in instrumental music education. Jake has a wealth of performing experience in pageantry arts, culminating in a DCI World Championship in 2019, and currently holds the principal euphonium position in CSU’s Symphony Orchestra. He has experience instructing large ensembles within the state, contributing to Fossil Ridge High School’s back-to-back 5A State Marching Band Championships and three bronze medal finishes with Fairview High School.

Jake also teaches private lessons in the northern Colorado region, and his students have received superior ratings at district level individual and ensemble festivals. Jake is an enthusiastic and driven young educator who is deeply committed to excellence and is capable of working with students with unique needs in many different environments.

Low Brass Instructor

JAKE ARCHIBEQUE

London is 21 years old and is currently finishing his Bachelor’s in Music Education at Texas State University. He has spent most of his time participating in various ensembles during his time at TXST, such as the Wind Symphony, Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, Salsa Del Rio, and many Chamber Ensembles.
London has experienced 2 great years as a DCI performer with the Blue Devils Drum & Bugle Corps in 2022 and 2023, as a lead trumpet player and soloist. He has also served as a choreographer, private instructor, marching technician, and is still involved in various musical and visual educational opportunities throughout the Central Texas area.
Brass Staff

LONDON RODRIGUEZ

Christian is a resident of Austin, Texas and is an alumni of the University of Houston. He obtained his degree in instrumental music education and has experience performing with the school’s wind ensemble, symphony orchestra, percussion ensemble, steel band, and world renowned “Spirit of Houston” marching band. Christian has had the opportunity to perform in Drum Corps International with the Phantom Regiment, and WGI Percussion with Monarch Independent.

His teaching experience includes numerous high school percussion programs in the Houston area, and independent groups as well. Christian also served as the former percussion caption head at Compass Drum and Bugle Corps during their 2021 season. In 2022, he also served as a bass technician at Louisiana Stars. Christian is also serving as a bass technician for Rhythmic Force Percussion in Austin. TX, and in 2023 was on the Blue Knights battery staff.

Christian is super elated to return to the Blue Knights Percussion staff in a new role this season and can’t wait to have a memorable summer!

Battery Co-Manager

CHRISTIAN GONZALES

Residing in Austin, Texas, Elliott has over ten years of marching and teaching experience. His performance background includes Rhythmic Force Percussion, Genesis Drum and Bugle Corps, the Texas State Bobcat Marching Band, Colts Drum and Bugle Corps, Monarch Independent, and the Blue Knights.

Elliott has been an active educator in central Texas for the past several years. He has worked with numerous high schools in the area including Lockhart High School, Hendrickson High School, Rouse High School, and most recently, Westwood and Pflugerville High School. He is also active in the DCI and WGI scene, serving as a snare technician for Shadow Drum and Bugle Corps, Genesis Drum and Bugle Corps, and Rhythmic Force Percussion.

This will be Elliott’s first season with the Blue Knights and he is looking forward to reuniting with one of his home teams as well as trying to provide an enriching and fulfilling member experience.

Snare Technician

ELLIOTT HUMPHREY

Harold Randolph is a DFW-based percussionist and musician. His performance experience includes the Guardians Drum and Bugle Corps, the Troopers Drum and Bugle Corps and WGI experience with Vigilantes Indoor Percussion. Harold is also a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University, with a bachelors degree in arts and a minor in education.

Harold also does lots of freelance performing in the DFW area including the Dallas Mavericks Drumline, the FC Dallas Drumline and the Cutting Edge Corps who were the Pasic Drumline BattleChampions in 2017 and 2018.

Harold has also taught all over the DFW area that’s cool such as Allen high school, Lewisville high school, and Nimitz High School to name a few. Additionally he also writes and arranges music for the Oklahoma Baptist University Bison Brigade marching band.

Snare Technician

HAROLD RANDOLPH

Sean Fitze is from Colorado Springs, Colorado.  He is currently teaching at Rise Percussion as a snare Tech as well as Monarch HS where he is a battery coordinator.  He also enjoys giving lessons to drummers of all ages and skill levels.

He has spent his DCI/WGI career around a variety of groups. Starting his marching career as a student at Air Academy HS marching band winning three state championships. From there he went on to march independent groups in Colorado including Blue Knights Percussion Ensemble and Rise. Later he went out of state to be a part of Monarch Independent as well as spending his last few years at Broken City. As for DCI, he marched my first two years with the Sacramento Mandarins and from there went on to march Blue Knights and spent his final year with the Bluecoats.

Outside of drumming he currently resides in Boulder, Colorado where he studies Computer Science and Astronomy at CU Boulder.

Battery Instructor

SEAN FITZE

Seth Fajardo is a percussion instructor currently based in the Pasadena area. In the past, Seth has taught at multiple high schools but currently works at North Torrance High School. He is also the Battery Manager of Élan Percussion and is a snare tech at the Blue Knights. As a performer, Seth spent multiple years at Pacific Crest and Pulse Percussion, winning gold twice as well as getting the world record. He is also currently pursuing a degree in music education from Pasadena City College.
Seth is excited to come back to the Blue Knights for another amazing season!

Snare Technician

SETH FAJARDO

Matt Zintgraff believes in the value of several life skills, such as self-discipline, how to communicate, and how to work toward a goal through music. He wishes to help his students attain these skills and reap the many other benefits of participating in music, such as lifelong friendships and unforgettable memories.

Matt got his BM at Texas State University, where he served as a leader in the Bobcat Marching Band, received high-quality percussion instruction, and performed in the top wind ensemble. In addition to his college experiences, Matt marched quads with the Phantom Regiment, which served as a satisfying end to his Drum Corps career. Prior to 2019, Matt also marched at the Guardians Drum and Bugle Corps, Vigilantes Indoor Percussion, and Violet Crown Indoor Percussion. Once he aged out, Matt began teaching Drum Corps at the Soundsport Corps, Compass, and World Class Corps, The Spirit of Atlanta. Matt also enjoyed teaching at Fort Stockton HS and MS as the Assistant/Percussion Director for two years, and now serves as the Director of Percussion in Denison, TX.

When he is not teaching, Matt enjoys exercising, playing video games with his fiance, and spending time with his very vocal husky, Chomper.

From being in various groups and under a wide spectrum of instructors, Matt aims to teach his students the value of working hard alongside others with like-minded goals. In turn, Matt Zintgraff is wholeheartedly committed to bringing forth his many perspectives on percussion for the benefit of his students.”

Tenor Technician

MATT ZINTGRAFF

Austen is an educator in Dallas, Texas. He has worked with programs such as Burleson Centennial HS, Seven Lakes HS, Cinco Ranch HS and most recently taught at the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps for the 2022 season. Austen has a bachelor’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University in Music Education.
Austen has previously performed with ensembles over the years including Monarch Independent Percussion (2017-2020), Colts Drum and Bugle Corps (2017) and the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps (2019).
Battery Instructor

AUSTEN WHITE

Matt James is an active educator and performer from Goshen Indiana. He holds a Bachelors in Music Education and a Masters in Music Performance from Illinois State University. He currently resides as the percussion director for Goshen Community Schools, where he works with their various music ensembles and marching program.

His marching performance experience involves Green Thunder Percussion (2011-2014), Cavaliers Indoor Percussion (2015-2017), Legends Drum and Bugle Corps (2012), and Phantom Regiment (2013-2016). His marching education experience includes Shadow Drum and Bugle Corps (2017-2020), Cavaliers Indoor (2018) the Madison Scouts (2019), and the Blue Knights.

Battery Instructor

MATT JAMES

Josh resides in the Cleveland, OH area where he spends his days as the Director of Operations for 216 Maintenance LLC and performs with the Cleveland Cavaliers entertainment ensemble, the 216Stix.

His performance experience includes Wake Forest Independent (’10-’13), Carolina Gold Drum and Bugle Corps (’11, ’12), Phantom Regiment Drum and Bugle Corps (’13), Matrix World (’14), and QStix/216stix (’15-present). He has performed with DJ Khalid, Ludacris, Rascal Flatts, AJR, Portugal the Man, Lil Wayne, Migos, and more.

His educational background includes Pioneer Drum and Bugle Corps (’14-’16), Legends Drum and Bugle Corps (’17), and Phantom Regiment Drum and Bugle Corps (’18-’22) as a Bass Drum technician.

Bass Technician

JOSH MITCHELL

TJ Salsberg is a resident of the Mississippi Gulf Coast and is excited to join the Blue Knights!

He has worked as a music educator and battery arranger with various high school marching band programs and indoor percussion ensembles in Mississippi, South Carolina, and Texas. Some of these schools include Germantown High School (MS), Petal High School (MS), West Harrison High School (MS), T.L. Hanna High School (SC), Dawson HS (TX), and Jones College (MS). He was a battery instructor for 8x WGI Percussion Scholastic World Class finalist, Petal Indoor Theatre from 2017-2023.

His teaching experiences have also included working with several DCI & WGI ensembles. He was on the battery staff for Louisiana Stars Drum and Bugle Corps from 2018 – 2022, primarily as a bass drum tech. In 2023, he joined Crossmen Drum and Bugle Corps as a battery visual tech. He has had the privilege to work with other independent percussion ensembles including Audio Theatre and Palmetto Indoor Theatre.

His experiences as a performer include two summers of drum corps with Colts Drum and Bugle Corps; 2014 in the front ensemble and 2015 on bass drum. He also performed multiple seasons of WGI indoor percussion on snare drum. He marched two seasons in WGI Percussion Open Class, before performing with WGI Independent World Class finalist, Palmetto Percussion in 2015 and 2016.

Bass Technician

TJ SALSBERG

Kyler is a percussion educator from Goshen, Indiana. He graduated from Ball State in the spring of 2021 with a degree in Music Media Production and a certificate in Entrepreneurial Music. During his undergrad, Kyler had the opportunity to study under Professor Braham Dembar.

Kyler started his marching career in 2015 with the Colts Drum and Bugle Corps. He marched with the Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps for three years from 2016 through 2018, and Legacy Indoor Percussion for two years from 2017 through 2018.

Kyler is an experienced and dedicated consultant for marching bands and indoor percussion ensembles, and has served as a technician for several high schools throughout Indiana. This will be his fourth consecutive year as an educator with the Blue Knights. Kyler is also the Front Ensemble Coordinator at Veritas, a WGI Independent World Class percussion ensemble. He currently works with Brownsburg and Decatur Central high schools, and additionally serves as a percussion specialist at Decatur and Brownsburg Middle schools. He currently resides in Speedway, IN.

KYLER ALTENHOF

Eric is an active educator and performer based in Fort Worth, Texas. Currently, Eric works as a percussion specialist and clinician for Boswell High School, a current PSW WGI finalist, and Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD. Eric has worked with many schools throughout Tennessee and Texas, including Farragut High School, Fred J. Page High School, South Gibson County High School, Halls High School, The Kinkaid School, Morton Ranch High School, Seymour High School, and Walker Valley High School. Eric has also been heavily involved in the DCI and WGI community working with such groups as Music City Drum & Bugle Corps, the Colts Drum & Bugle Corps, Carolina Crown Drum & Bugle Corps, Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps and has served as the Front Ensemble Coordinator for Vigilantes Indoor Percussion based out of Fort Worth, Texas since 2019.
As an active performer, Eric performed regularly with the live house band for the Smoky Mountain Opry Theater in Pigeon Forge, TN as a featured percussionist. As a soloist, Eric has been named a Finalist for the 2014 Nashville Philharmonic Orchestra Concerto Competition, a Semi-finalist of the 2015 Great Plains International Marimba Competition and placed 1st in the 2016 TNPAS Collegiate Multi-Percussion Competition. In 2014, Eric placed 1st in the American Protégé International Concerto Competition resulting in a solo performance at Carnegie Hall. He also performed regularly with the Bryan Symphony Orchestra and was a member of the 2015 Inaugural Percussion Arts Society All-Star International Percussion Ensemble. In the marching arts, Eric has been a member of the Pioneer Drum and Bugle Corps (2008-2010), Carolina Crown (2011, 2012, 2014), and Music City Mystique (2014-2016). Eric holds a degree in music from Tennessee Tech University, where he studied with Dr. Eric Willie, Dr. Colin Hill, and Dr. Brad Meyer. His other teachers include Brad Martin, Keith Brown, and Betty Smelcer.

Front Ensemble Co-Manager

ERIC ROUNDY

Originally from Buffalo, Minnesota and currently residing in Saint Paul, Nicholas’ passion for music and the marching arts began at Buffalo High School, where he performed in various concert and marching ensembles. Nicholas has extensive marching experience in both indoor ensembles and drum corps, including Minnesota Brass Indoor (2012, 2015, 2016, 2017), and RCC Indoor Percussion in 2018, and serving as the ensemble’s section leader in 2019. Minnesota Brass Drum Corps (2013), Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps (2014, 2016), and Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps in 2017, aging out at section leader and center marimba in 2018. In the realm of teaching, Nicholas has worked with the front ensembles at Irondale High School, Warm Springs Middle School, and Loara High School.

In 2017, Nicholas obtained his bachelor’s degree in Interpretation and Translation for both Portuguese and Spanish language from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. Outside of the marching activity, he works for an international airline and loves to dance, write music, and spend time at the beach. As a Blue Knights alumni, Nicholas is incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to give back to the organization that has given him so much.

Front Ensemble Instructor

NICHOLAS SODEN

Isaac Merriweather is a percussion instructor born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana. Isaac has worked with multiple high schools as a front ensemble technician including Ben Davis High School (2017-2018), Pike High School (2021), and is currently a front ensemble technician at Hamilton Southeastern High School (2018-Present). He is also a front ensemble technician for Veritas Indoor Percussion and serves as the director of membership experience for 317 Performing Arts.

As a performer, Isaac spent his outdoor experience as the timpanist for the Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps (2017-2019). His indoor experience includes Legacy Indoor Percussion (2017-2018), and Veritas Indoor Percussion (2019-2020).

Front Ensemble Instructor

ISAAC MERRIWEATHER

Javi Garza is an active educator, clinician, adjudicator and performer in the West Texas area. Javi first began his DCI career in 2019 performing with Genesis Drum and Bugle Corps. In 2021, Javi was the center marimba for the Colts Drum and Bugle Corps where he also earned 4th place in DCI’s I&E Keyboard competition. Javi aged out with the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps in 2022 as well as aging out with Broken City Indoor Percussion in 2023. Since 2019, Javi has been studying Percussion Performance and Music Education at Texas Tech University where he studies under Dr. Lisa Rogers and Dr. Michael Mixtacki. Since then, Javi has also taught front ensembles and private lessons in schools all throughout Texas and California such as McAllen Memorial HS, Economedes HS, Lubbock Cooper HS, Frenship HS, West Plains HS, Lockney HS, Ropesville ISD, John W. North HS and many others. This will be Javi’s 2nd year working with the Blue Knights.

Front Ensemble Technician

JAVI GARZA

Lauren Bolton currently serves as the Percussion Director for the Martin High School pyramid in Arlington, Texas. Lauren has a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Texas at Arlington and a performance background that includes marching with Vigilantes Indoor Percussion from 2014-2017. In addition, Lauren has performed at the Percussive Arts Society International Convention of 2017, commissioned and premiered Dustin Schulze’s Waterfall for marimba, and is a proud Dynasty Artist and Educator.

Lauren has been teaching percussion students in the DFW area since 2014. She has played an instrumental role in teaching the percussion sections at Arlington High School, Trinity High School, Kennedale High School, Southlake Carroll High School, Richland High School, and Paschal High School. Her private lesson studios have included the Arlington High School and Hebron High School clusters, and has taught many All-Region and front ensemble masterclasses in the DFW area. In addition, Lauren has taught several independent groups including Genesis Drum and Bugle Corps and Vigilantes Indoor Percussion.

Aside from being an active percussionist, performer, and educator in the DFW area, Lauren and her husband love to travel! They currently live in Fort Worth, TX with their corgis Watson and Bailey.

Front Ensemble Technician

LAUREN BOLTON

Michael Williams is a percussionist, performer, and educator located in Northern Colorado. With a wide variety of performance and teaching experience over the last decade, Michael is dedicated to his pursuit of growing percussion education within his communities.

His interest in percussion first started with his time attending Northglenn High School in the band and indoor percussion programs taught by Dave and Kathy Marvin from 2007-2011. In his four years, Northglenn earned PSW finalist status twice at WGI, and won the very first WGI Fan Favorite Award in 2010 with their show entitled “Deadbeats, Drums of the Dead.”

In 2015, Michael graduated from Colorado State University with a B.A. in Music Education. From percussion ensembles and jazz band to solo repertoire and steel pan, Michael has developed an array of performance experience under the instruction of Dr. Eric Hollenbeck and Shilo Stroman.

Michael has been heavily influenced by his experiences in the marching arts community through his participation in DCI and WGI. In 2012 and 2014, Michael played snare drum for the Troopers Drum and Bugle Corps of Casper, Wyoming. Michael continued in WGI playing snare drum for the Blue Knights Percussion Ensemble from 2013-2015.

Michael has become a prominent music educator in the state of Colorado. Currently, he is in his 10th year of teaching with Loveland High School, as the Director of Percussion/Assistant Band Director. Additionally, he has worked at Thompson Valley High School, Fossil Ridge, Windsor, and Dakota Ridge High School with their percussion sections.

Michael has worked with NOCOAMP, Silver Creek High School, Standley Lake High School and Dakota Ridge High School, who took first in PCO at WGI World Championships in 2015.

Michael worked at Altitude Percussion serving as the Battery Caption Head in his second year with the ensemble. He also helped found Black Diamond Percussion as a caption head in their inaugural year, making semifinals at the 2018 WGI World Championships.

Currently, Michael is in his 5th year as the Battery Caption Head for the Blue Knights Percussion Ensemble. The 2021-2022 season saw BKPE making their way back into WGI Independent World Finals for the first time since 2013.

Michael is proud to work with the Battalion Drum and Bugle Corps from Salt Lake City, Utah. Currently, he is in his eighth year with the Battalion serving as the Battery Caption Head.

While also working with Battalion, Michael is excited to be joining on with the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps as a Snare Tech for the 2023-2024 season!

Battery Instructor

MICHAEL WILLIAMS

Brianna is an active music educator and percussionist from Brownsburg, Indiana.  She graduated from Ball State University in 2020 with a degree in Music Education.  She is also currently finishing up a Master’s degree in Music Education from Anderson University.  In previous seasons, she has worked with Veritas, Blue Stars, and Blue Knights’ front ensembles.  This will be Brianna’s second season working with Blue Knights’ front ensemble!

As a performer, Brianna marched with the Blue Stars from 2017 to 2019, where she gained experience playing synth, vibraphone, and marimba. 

As an educator, Brianna currently works with all age levels in Brownsburg Community Schools.  She is an Orff-focused elementary music teacher as well as a percussion/front ensemble coach with Brownsburg Middle & High Schools.

Front Ensemble Technician

BRIANNA RUDE-DOERGES

Kyler is a composer, educator, and performer residing in Des Moines, Iowa.  He is the adjunct professor of drum set for the School for Music Vocations Southwestern Community College, and the battery coordinator at Waukee High School. He has also worked with Cedar Falls High School, Waterloo West High School, Ballard High School, and River City Rhythm Indoor. With a music degree from University of Northern Iowa, Kyler is well versed in styles of jazz, rock, funk, latin, and linear drumming. As a composer, Kyler has written for various marching bands and actively releases music on a regular basis. Kyler draws from his experience in the Colts Drum & Bugle Corps (2015-16), River City Rhythm Indoor (2018), the Cavaliers Drum & Bugle Corps (2018), classical ensembles, and jazz ensembles to influence his composition and professional performing career as a live and studio drummer of all styles. Additionally, Kyler is completing a masters in music education from Drake University and runs a private studio for drum set and percussion lessons.

Front Ensemble Consultant

KYLER BOSS

Trevor Stojanovich was born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada and recently moved to Round Rock, Texas to become Assistant Director of Bands at Manor Senior HS. Prior to moving to Texas, he was Assistant Director of Bands at Silverado HS in Las Vegas, Nevada. Trevor received his Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
In the pageantry arts, Trevor was a member of Gold Drum & Bugle Corps (2012-2013), The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps (2014-2015), and the Blue Devils (2016-2017). As a visual instructor, he has been on staff with ensembles such as the Sacramento Mandarins, Gold Drum & Bugle Corps, and most recently Pacific Crest for the 2022 and 2023 seasons. In the indoor percussion world, he was a member of Vegas Vanguard (2015) and Vessel Indoor Percussion (2019). He was also a founder and director of sage V Percussion for the 2020 and 2021 seasons. Before becoming a band director, he was also an instructor at Foothill HS and Liberty HS.
Recently, Trevor has been a visual designer and choreographer for groups in Southern Nevada. He is very excited to bring his passion for movement and creativity to the Blue Knights and to continue building upon a culture of excellence and artistic innovation.
Visual Caption Head

TREVOR STOJANOVICH

Everett Kim is a marching arts educator and film composer from Manhattan Beach, California. As a performer, Everett was a member of the Pacific Crest in 2015 and the Blue Devils from 2016 to 2019 as a trumpet player and drum major. As an educator, Everett has taught marching band and independent percussion in the Southern California region and is currently teaching at Arcadia High School and Sunny Hills High School. Additional educational experience includes being on the visual instructional staff for the Blue Devils B and Meraki Percussion.


Everett received his bachelor’s degree in film scoring at Berklee College of Music and went on to receive his master’s degree in screen scoring from the University of Southern California Thornton School of Music. After graduating in 2022 he scored his first feature film and is currently a composer for film and television in the Los Angeles area.

Everett Kim

EVERETT KIM

Tyler Lindemier currently lives in Westland, Michigan. He earned a bachelors degree in elementary education with a double minor in math and reading from Eastern Michigan University.

He is currently a full time educator and in demand designer for marching bands and indoor percussion ensembles across the country. Tyler serves as the visual coordinator for the Plymouth-Canton Educational Park Marching Band. Plymouth-Canton is a consistent MCBA Visual Caption Award Winner,  BOA Regional Finalist and BOA Grand National Semi-Finalist.

Tyler has worked with several world class drum and bugle corps and indoor percussion ensembles, including the Troopers, Blue Knights, Boston Crusaders, Carolina Crown, Madison Scouts, Redline Percussion and Cap City Percussion. Internationally, Tyler was a member of the 2018 Jubal Drum and Bugle Corps design team, helping them achieve the 2018 Drum Corps European Championship! Tyler is excited to return to the Blue Knights in 2024!

Visual Technician

TYLER LINDEMIER

Alex Wallace was born and raised in San Diego, California and is now residing in Sacramento, California where he helps run his family’s restaurant. In the pageantry arts, Alex was a member of Gold Drum & Bugle Corps (2012-2013), The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps (2014), and the Sacramento Mandarins (2015-2017) where he aged out as horn sergeant. As a visual instructor, he has been on staff with the Sacramento Mandarins from 2019 through the 2022 season & with the Sacramento State Marching band. Alex has taught at several high schools as a staff member including Chula Vista HS, Mira Mesa HS, Eastlake High School, & Elk Grove High School. Alex is excited to share his passion and knowledge for the activity with the Blue Knights this summer!

Visual Technician

ALEX WALLACE

Justin is an Arizona Native who has been involved in the marching arts just shy of 20 years. After aging out from the Arizona Academy in 2012, he was hired onto the Mandarins DBC visual staff in 2013. During His time with the Mandarins, Justin was part of a team that took their 23rd place visual proficiency program to 7th in 2019.  Justin also worked as the assistant caption head for the 2014,2015, and 2016 seasons, and split time with the Arizona Academy as a visual staff member in 2015. In 2023 Justin became the drill designer for the Govenaires DBC who went on to take bronze at DCA finals. 
While in Arizona Justin worked with multiple award winning ensembles including Div 2 state champions Gilbert high school, BOA Regional finalist Corona del sol high school, WBA finalist Basha high school,  State finalist Millennium high school, WGAZ gold PIA and PIO gold medalist Vision percussion and was a visual analysis judge in the WGAZ circuit. 
In 2020 Justin Moved to Houston Texas to work with James E. Taylor and clear creek high schools, and eventually settled down in Minnesota where he has been able to work with Hutchinson high school, east view high school, and has been a Minnesota percussion association visual analysis judge at state championships. 
Currently Justin is the Artistic Director of the Govenaires Winter percussion ensemble and finishing his degree in Organizational leadership project management at ASU. In the small window no band is happening, Justin and his partner Mandy Rae attend baseball games, musicals, and museums.
Visual Technician

JUSTIN MONS

Ryan Oster (He/Him) is a Band Director in the DFW area at Garland High School. His previous DCI affiliations include performing with the Madison Scouts (2015-2017) and being a visual staff member with the Madison Scouts (2017-2019), the Crossmen (2019-2020), and the Guardians (2020-2023). In WGI, Ryan has worked as a music/visual educator with Azle High School Indoor Winds and Percussion (2017-2019), Vigilantes Indoor Percussion (2017-2019), and Rhythmic Force Percussion (2019-2023). He loves video games, hanging out with his dog Yuta, and spending time with his friends and family.  

Visual Technician

RYAN OSTER

Alvina is an educator, choreographer, and performer based in Southern California who brings a wealth of experience from the realms of movement and music. Her journey began as an instructor at Li’s Ballet Studio in 2016, where she taught dance fundamentals to young students. Her trajectory took an exciting turn upon discovering the world of marching arts, igniting a newfound passion. 

Alvina’s marching career as a performer includes two seasons with the Blue Devils in 2019 and 2022, as well as appearances in WGI visual ensembles, notably with Dark Sky Percussion in 2018 and RCC Indoor in 2019 and 2023.

With a strong foundation in movement and education, Alvina transitioned to the role of educator, working with ensembles such as Arcadia HS, Meraki Percussion, Cerritos HS, Temple City HS, and La Quinta HS in their respective indoor percussion and outdoor marching band circuits. She has also grown into the role of choreographer writing for ensembles such as Bloomington HS and Stockdale HS.

Beyond her artistic pursuits, Alvina holds a degree in Psychology and Cognitive Science from UCLA and has aspirations to work in the gaming industry. With an unwavering commitment to growth and excellence, her diverse background and passion position her to make a lasting impact in the ensembles she collaborates with. 

Alvina is looking forward to working with the Blue Knights this season!

Visual Technician

ALVINA ZHANG

Kelsey Mitchell was born and raised in Phoenix, AZ and started her colorguard career at Sandra Day O’Connor HS in 2011 after being in dance classes since the age of three. After graduating high school, Kelsey went on to perform with the Arizona State University colorguard and Fenix Independent World winterguard from 2013-2018. Kelsey also had the opportunity to be a part of the Blue Knights colorguard for her age out year in 2016.
In 2014 Kelsey discovered her love of teaching when she became the Colorguard Caption Head at her alma mater, and has since been teaching there for 10 years. Under her direction, the program has flourished and expanded into multiple award winning teams, and her students have gone on to march in various world class winterguards and drum corps. In addition to colorguard, Kelsey has also taught dance and yoga to all skill levels and ages ranging from 18 months to 81 years. 
Kelsey has a strong passion for movement therapy and is pursuing her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy.
Visual Technician

KELSEY MITCHELL

Meet Rob St. Luce, a marching enthusiast with a love for music, art and fitness. Originally from NJ, Rob kicked off his journey as a Mellophone player at Desert Oasis High School in Las Vegas, NV. He continued on to perform with The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps from 2013 to 2015, serving as the Mellophone section leader in his final year.
Rob’s dedication to nurturing the next generation extended to teaching, where he has left his mark at various high schools around Las Vegas, including Liberty, Desert Oasis, Silverado, Durango, and Foothill High School since 2012. In 2019, Rob had the honor to be a part of the inaugural season for sage V Percussion and continued through 2022. His unwavering commitment to the craft ensures that the art of pageantry lives on.
Visual Technician

ROBERT ST. LUCE

Josh Davis currently resides in Lafayette, CO and serves as the visual caption head at Columbine High School in Littleton, CO. Josh has served as a visual educator for many marching ensembles throughout southern Alabama, also including: Southwind Drum & Bugle Corps ‘2018 ‘2020. Spirit of Atlanta Drum & Bugle corps ‘2018 and the Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps ‘2022. Josh has been a performer with the following ensembles: Spirit of Atlanta, Atlanta Quest, Carolina Crown and the Blue Devils. Josh is excited to return to the visual team for the 2023 Blue Knights!

Visual Technician

JOSH DAVIS

Corey Castillo is a musician and marching arts educator based in Austin, Texas. From 2018 to 2023, Corey was a member of the Blue Devils Drum & Bugle Corps as a mellophone player and head drum major, and received the 2022 Blue Devil of the Year award. More importantly, the development of leadership and life skills is a process that Corey shares with his students as a staff member of the Vista Ridge High School and Austin High School marching bands. He has taught numerous marching programs in the Los Angeles area and is excited to be joining the visual staff of the Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps. In the digital world, Corey collaborates with Silent Command in hosting and producing The 8 to 5 Club, a podcast for leaders in the marching arts. Corey is a graduate student at the UT Austin Butler School of Music and holds a bachelor’s degree in bassoon performance from UCLA.

Visual Technician

COREY CASTILLO

Brenden Posner was born in New Jersey, but raised in Las Vegas, Nevada after having spent some years growing up in California. He is currently working as a contractor with the Department of Defense as a Link-16 Field Engineer and is an enlisted member of the United States Air Force Reserves as a Client Systems Technician. Apart from his career, he has passion for music and the performing arts. Brenden has marched with the Mandarins Drum and Bugle Corps in 2016 as well as Dark Sky Percussion in 2019. He’s spent the past 5 years teaching in the Las Vegas Valley at Foothill High School and Silverado High School. Additionally, he had the chance to teach at sage V Percussion for their 2020 and 2021 seasons. Brenden is proud and excited to share his passion for visual education with the Blue Knights this summer!

Visual Technician

BRENDEN POSNER

Ansley Scott is originally from Atlanta, Georgia, and currently studies industrial and systems engineering at Georgia Tech. She also works part-time as a supply chain analyst at Georgia Pacific. Ansley marched mellophone at Atlanta CV from 2018 to 2019, Spirit of Atlanta from 2020 to 2021, and the Blue Devils from 2022 to 2023. Additionally, since 2022, Ansley has worked as a visual instructor at Kennesaw Mountain High School in Kennesaw, Georgia.

Visual Technician

ANSLEY SCOTT

Brandon has been a part of the arts for about ten years and marched a total of seven years of drum corps starting with Gold Drum and Bugle Corps (2014-2015) Blue Devils B (2017) and Mandarins (2018-2022), aging out as the horn sergeant. Brandon has taught visual at multiple schools across San Diego since the fall of 2018, most notably as the Visual Caption Head at Chula Vista high school and visual tech at Mira Mesa High school. Brandon currently attends Southwestern College and plans to transfer to San Diego State University to become a history teacher. Brandon is extremely excited to be part of this historic organization and help make a difference in the visual program.

Visual Technician

BRANDON WALLACE

Kelly Cohorst is a trumpet player and middle band director in Cy-Fair ISD. Kelly currently resides in Houston, Texas. She graduated from Texas State with a music education degree. Kelly marched Santa Clara Vanguard 2019, Boston Crusaders 2018 & 2016, and Troopers 2015. In her free time, Kelly likes to go rock climbing and play with her two cats, Derek and Lilith!

Visual Technician

KELLY COHORST

Aaron is an educator and music producer from Ventura County who has spent many years teaching alongside dedicated and passionate instructors in the marching arts community. He holds a background as a multi-instrumentalist with a primary focus on trumpet. He spent two years studying music and trumpet performance at Moorpark College. After graduating with an Associates Degree from Moorpark, Aaron transferred to California State University, Northridge and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Industry Studies in 2021.

Aaron’s marching experience started with Pacific Crest in 2015, and then 3 dedicated years at the Blue Devils from 2017-2019. It wasn’t until 2021 where he started to make strides as a visual caption head for Adolfo Camarillo High School’s Marching Band and Winter Drumline programs. Alongside Camarillo, he has taught at many prestigious programs in the area including Westlake High School, Moorpark High School, and Thousand Oaks High School – constantly helping those programs to medal in their respective divisions.

Visual Technician

AARON TALABUCON

Alex Ruemmler is currently a winterguard director and science teacher at Narbonne Senior High School in the LA public schools district. She has trained extensively in dance and movement and has performed previously with the Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps, Vanguard Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps, Momentum Dance Company at Vanderbilt University, Saratoga High School, and Lana’s Dance Studio. This is her first year teaching drum corps and she is excited to work with the Visual Team to help the members develop their movement skills so they can be confident and strong performers on the field!

Visual Technician

ALEX RUEMMLER

Health and Wellness

LEIGH HADJIS

Health and Wellness

AMBER SONS

Health and Wellness

MAKENNA MCLAUGHLIN

Ken Adams

KEN ADAMS

Mark Arnold is one of the longest-serving Directors in Drum Corps International, serving as Executive Director of the Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps since 1985 and as CEO of Ascend Performing Arts since 2010.

Under his leadership the Blue Knights organization has developed into one of the premier Drum and Bugle Corps in the history of the activity, recognized Internationally for excellence and innovation in the performing arts. Through the years the Blue Knights has expanded its programing and now serves thousands of young musicians and performers annually in multiple performing ensembles, events and educational programs under the umbrella of the Ascend Performing Arts.

In addition to shaping the course of Ascend Performing Arts, Mark also has played an integral role in the ongoing development and successes of Drum Corps International as a collective. He served as chairman of the DCI Board of Directors in 1994 and again from 2008 to 2013. Mark was honored as Corps Director of the Year in 2004, and was the inaugural recipient of the George Bonfiglio Chairman’s Award at the 2012 DCI World Championships, which is given to an individual each year who demonstrates extraordinary leadership and service on behalf of DCI and its performing drum corps.  Mark was inducted into the DCI Hall of Fame in 2014 and the Blue Knights Hall of Fame in 2019.

Prior to his position with the Blue Knights, Mark was the Assistant Director of the Troopers Drum and Bugle Corps from 1978 through 1983, serving alongside Director Jim Jones, one of the founders of Drum Corps International and an inaugural member of the DCI Hall of Fame.  Mr. Arnold has a degree in Music Education from the University of Wyoming and taught High School Music in Wyoming and Nebraska from 1979 through 1985.
Mark Arnold

MARK ARNOLD

Scott Factor has served on the Ascend Performing Arts Board from 2012 to 2018 as a voting member in various positions including Vice-Chairman. Since 2019 my role has been in an Advisory position.

Outside of Ascend Performing Arts i am Senior Account Executive for Baxter HealthCare.
Scott Factor

SCOTT FACTOR

I am currently an Ascend Board Member-at-Large.  I have been a volunteer with the Blue Knights since 2013.  I have been serving on the BoD since 2019.  I retired from the United States Postal Service in 2010.  Although I have never marched drum corps I am an avid fan of the activity and thoroughly support our members in any way that I can.  “We Go On”!!! 

Neil Corvino

NEIL CORVINO

Board member Kathy Black is an attorney in New Mexico practicing as a full-time litigator focused on employment and civil rights defense. She came to the law as a second career after twenty-five years in high tech with NCR Corporation, doing everything from operating systems programming to Vice President positions in engineering, customer services, and sales. She earned her JD from Lewis & Clark Law School and her BA from the University of Colorado, Boulder. Ms. Black is active as a percussionist in the Albuquerque area. Way back in 1978 she marched with the Guardsmen, including at DCI Finals in Denver.  After many years of being just a drum corps fan, she was elected to the Drum Corps International Board of Directors in January 2016 and served on that board until January 2022, including three years as chair. 

Kathy Black

KATHY BLACK

Bryant’s path to the Ascend Board of Directors, which began in 2021 as a member-at-large, traces back to his childhood. Watching the Reading Buccaneers senior drum corps practice near his grandparents’ home ignited a lifelong passion, and a student of all thing’s percussion.

Years later a family move to Colorado provided Bryant with a platform to display his passion, both on the stage with the nationally acclaimed Green Earth Percussion Ensemble and on the field as a snare drummer with the Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps until his age-out year in 1984.

In his professional career as the Senior Director of Strategic Accounts at Yokohama Tire Co., Bryant credits the principles instilled by the marching arts and years on tour for his success. On a personal level, the arts played an even larger role, where Bryant met his wife, Stephanie. The Rankin’s currently make their home in South Carolina, enjoying time with their grown children, two incredible grandchildren, and their beloved brown lab, Zoey.
Bryant Rankin

BRYANT RANKIN

Retired, Director, Office of Research and Analysis, Colorado Department of Revenue Ms. Archibeque served 26 years in the area of statistical analysis for the Colorado Department of Revenue and Colorado Department of Labor and Employment. Her skills in this area assist the board in developing a strategy for statistical analysis in the area of program evaluation. She has also been a significant volunteer managing and working with volunteers for the organization and will assist the board in understanding the complex nature of the organization. Her personal experiences as a minority and female can inform and promote a more inclusive environment and agenda for the projects that the board supports.

Janet Archibeque

JANET ARCHIBEQUE

Rob Batchelder was appointed to the Ascend Performing Arts Board of Directors in May 2023, and currently serves as Vice Chair. As a member of the Senior Foreign Service, Rob has represented the United States overseas in India, Poland, Germany, Argentina, Nicaragua, Jamaica, and Namibia during a diplomatic career spanning nearly 30 years. He currently serves as Managing Director for Visa Services in the State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs in Washington, DC. Rob marched in the Blue Knights hornline in 1987 and 1988, and he was Drum Major in 1989. He and his family live in Alexandria, Virginia, but his heart still yearns for Colorado.

Rob Batchelder

Rob BATCHELDER