Welcome to Drums Along the Rockies, Colorado’s premier marching music event. Ascend Performing Arts, home of the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps, is pleased to again be sponsoring this unique event. As we move forward into our 61st year of presenting the very best in world class outdoor musical exhibition, we are so pleased you have joined us here at beautiful Canvas Stadium on the CSU campus for another great evening of pulsepounding beats, soaring melodies and heart-stopping visual displays.
Every summer, young performers from across the globe come together with one purpose—to become part of the incredible experience that is drum corps. Hundreds of hours of rehearsal will take place before these performers ever see an audience. With every corps striving to become the best of the best, competition is fierce right out of the gate. These corps are involved in the world of competitive drum and bugle corps sanctioned by Drum Corps International (DCI). These members, along with the staffs that coach and lead them, have put their hearts, bodies and souls into the performances you’re about to see. Whether you’re a seasoned drum corps veteran or completely new to the activity, you will be blown away by what these young performers can accomplish. For these performers-no matter what their dream--being part of a DCI drum corps can help them achieve it, while at the same time providing them with one of the most intense and rewarding performing arts educations experiences in the world. The skills and lessons they learn while on the road with their chosen corps will build a strong personal and educational foundation which will benefit them the rest of their life.
Thank you for coming tonight and supporting these amazing performers on their incredible journey towards Drum Corps International’s World Championships held in Indianapolis, Indiana this August. What you’re about to see is some of the most entertaining and finest youth activities in the world, so sit back, relax and enjoy the show!
Sincerely,
Mark Arnold, Executive Director Ascend Performing Arts, Inc
Lynn and George Lindstrom 2025 Volunteer of the Year Award
The Lindstroms were the coordinators for Ascend Events for over 30 years. They planned and managed Ascend’s successful Drums Along the Rockies in Colorado, Corps Encore in Utah, and The Friendship Cup, Ascend’s Front Range series of scholastic marching band competitions. George served as Blue Knights Executive Director in 1984 and served the maximum years allowed on the Ascend Board of Directors. For all these events, they successfully amassed a loyal alliance of volunteers who served with them for years. This Memorial Recognition Award was established to carry on their legacy of volunteerism.
Orlando Archibeque, known to friends as Lando, has been a dedicated volunteer for Ascend Performing Arts since his son Jake joined the Blue Knights in 2014. Many know him for his warm smile and steady support at camps, often helping with food setup and prep. But Lando’s impact goes far beyond—volunteering at Friendship Cup competitions, BKXperience camps, kitchen truck and warehouse cleanups, and more. He’s also a regular presence on the Blue Knights Family Facebook page, keeping parents informed and sharing photos from events. In 2016, he even brought his mom, Molly—who once ran a restaurant in Santa Fe—to cook camp meals, including her famous homemade tortillas, beans, and enchiladas. Today, Lando is still spotted in the stands cheering on BKO, BKPE, and the drum corps. His passion for supporting Ascend shines through in everything he does.
Orlando Archibeque
SHOW SCHEDULE
7:15 PM Rocky Mountain Brassworks
7:25 PM BKXperience Performance
7:35 PM Welcome and National Anthem
7:45 PM Troopers Casper, WY
8:03 PM Colts Dubuque, IA
8:21 PM Intermission
8:45 PM Blue Devils Concord, CA
9:03 PM Boston Crusaders Boston, MA
9:39 PM Blue Knights Denver, CO
10:00 PM Hall of Fame Presentation
10:15 PM Encore - Blue Knights
10:25 PM Scores Announced
PRE SHOW INFORMATION
The pre-show entertainment will be provided by several groups this year. Kicking off the festivities, participants who attend our BKXperience “Perform” clinic will be invited on the field to perform. The BKX Perform clinic is an excellent opportunity for brass, woodwinds, percussion, guard and drum majors to learn from some of the best staff in the world and we’re pleased to show off their hard work during the pre show entertainment.
The colors will be presented by the United States Marine Corps Recruiting Station Denver. For more information about the Marines, stop by their table in the concourse!
Today’s pre show ensemble are members and friends of the Rocky Mountain Brassworks. The Rocky Mountain Brassworks is a Colorado-based brass band with the traditional instrumentation of an authentic brass band (the most notable aspect is the absence of any trumpets or French horns). We perform several concerts in the Denver-metro area each year and support public school music education with our school program performances. The Brassworks performs 5 regular concerts a year around the Denver metro area and performs at least 4 times a year for local community events and for schools. For more information about the Brassworks go to rockymountainbrassworks.org
Blue Knights
2025 REPERTOIRE
Flying 101 by Ms Bronx
Drip by Leslie Gilreath, Jeff Ausdemore, Tanner Leonardo
Main Title (from Cast Away) by Alan Silvestri
Water by Tyla
Former vaudeville comedians and musicians, Fred and Faye Taylor, founded the Blue Knights in 1958. Recognized for innovation in visual design and contemporary programming, the Blue Knights have been a DCI World Championship finalist more than 20 times. Operating under Ascend Performing Arts, the organization also sponsors two indoor winter percussion ensembles, including their four-time WGI World Champion World Percussion Ensemble. Throughout the year, Ascend conducts numerous events, educational clinics and provides event entertainment worldwide.
STAFF
Executive Director
Mark Arnold
Drum Majors
Benjamin Cummings, Adisyn Livingston, Madeline Natvig, Kelsey Wolf
Design
Jed Weeks (Program Coordinator), Jeff Ausdemore (Percussion Designer), Leslie Gilreath (Brass Designer), Noe Gomez (Visual Designer), Jessica Glasgow (Visual Coordinator, Guard Designer), Tanner Leonardo (Sound Designer), Jay Bocook (Consultant), Ronnie Pruitt (Ensemble & Staff Coordinator)
Brass
Felix Cruz (Caption Head), Thomas Hubel (Asst Caption Head), Ariana Rios, Aidan Firchow, Alivin Martinez, Jonathon Zimny, Jaime Ochoa (Consultant), Thomas Vastine, Mac Guajardo, Jake Archibeque, Bailey Pruitt, Sammie Muckleroy, Jose Coronado, Noe Izaguirre, Ryan
Townsend, Andrew Long, Tyler Dahl, Mark Sayler, Gage Beasley, Blake Roberson, Amanda Hunt, London Rodriguez, Ben Vasko (Consultant), Jake Waldrop
Percussion
Taha Ahmed (Supervisor), Aundray Edwards (Battery Coordinator), Dominique “Chochy” Lousteau III (Front Ensemble Coordinator), Will Abraamyan, TJ Goss, Shane Roderick, Ryan Zeutzius, Chap Obregon, Anthony Rodriguez, Jordan Masters, Sammi Rogers, Gabe Sanchez, Maggie Thibodeaux Audio
Michelle Ciriello (Assistant Corps Director), Pablo Furukawa (Tour Director), Chris Prinster (Corps Manager) Drip
Rosa Westfall (Supervisor), Tanner Leonardo (Asst Sound Designer, A2), Cole O'Malley, Tyler Hanson, Briggs Sharples (Systems Designers), Chaz Bay, Ainsley Jones (Intern), Michael Wasilisin (Intern) Color Guard
Brandy DuBose (Supervisor), Ashley Schmit (Caption Manager), Jaycee Wilson, Lauren Owen, Jordan Casey (Choreographers), Alex Bolender, Haley Hofmann, Mackenzie O'Toole, Emily Zabriskie, Maria Bongiorno, Adam Selby, David Roybal Visual
Trevor Stojanovich (Caption Head), Alex Wallace (Asst Caption Head), Justin Mons, Josh Davis, Corey Castillo, Aaron Talabucon, Harrison Toma, Katie Zheng, Brandon Wallace, Ansley Scott, Kelly Cohorst, Alex Ruemmler, Alvina Zhang, Elijah Figueroa, Kelsey Mitchell, Reanna Zoellers, Josiah Williams, Lizz Alonzo, Shay Kim Administration
Jack R Treffer Endowed Memorial Scholarship
Jack Treffer
Ascend Performing Arts, home of the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps, is honored to have been chosen to manage the Jack R. Treffer Memorial Scholarship.
Drum corps was important to Jack so his family decided that the best way to honor him was to give back to the activity that he loved so much. A memorial scholarship fund was started with the intent that each year a Drum Major or a member in financial need with the Blue Knights receives scholarship assistance. The Blue Knights were chosen because they are the only remaining member of the Great Plains Drum and Bugle Corps Association and a shining example of the drum corps activity.
Jack joined the Admirals Drum and Bugle Corps as a snare drummer and eventually earned the position of Drum Major. In 1970 Jack and some of the other former Senior Corps members started the Young Admirals Junior Drum and Bugle Corps. They were a part of the Great Plains Drum and Bugle Corps Association along with the likes of Blue Knights, Silver Sabers, Sky Riders, and Argonne Rebels. Jack was a co-director, drill writer, and instructor. Unfortunately the Young Admirals folded in 1982 but Jack’s love for the activity never stopped. The Treffer family often spent their summers traveling to drum corps shows together.
The music and marching arts also rubbed off on Jack and Florence’s grandchildren. Their grandsons, Josh and Adam and granddaughters Christina, who marched with the Blue Knights, and Jessica are all involved with music.
The 2025 recipient of the Jack Treffer Memorial Scholarship is Adisyn Livingston. Adisyn is a recent graduate of Burleson Centennial High School in Burleson, Texas. In the fall Adisyn will be enrolled at Baylor University pursuing a degree in Music Education. Her stated goal is to become a music educator and teach future generations of musicians while continuing to participate in the Blue Knights as well as the indoor pageantry world.
This is Adisyn’s first year with the Blue Knights, where she serves as one of the Drum Majors.
Boston Crusaders
BOOM
2025 REPERTOIRE
The Kingdom by Tigran Hamasyan
Red, White and Black Worlds by Tigran Hamasyan
Whatchamacallit by Esquivel
Malambo No. 1
By Yma Sumac
The Commuter by Les Baxter
Shooting Star by Les Baxter
Once Upon Another Time by Sara Bareilles
No Time for Caution by Hans Zimmer
Molecular by Ryan George, Colin McNutt, Iain Moyer, Mike Zellers
Founded in 1940 as the Most Precious Blood Crusaders and later separating from the church parish that sponsored the group, the corps became the Hyde Park Crusaders and later the Boston Crusaders as it established itself as a national powerhouse. A charter member of DCI in the 1970s, it would not be until 1999 that Boston skyrocketed into the World Championship Finals. The corps has retained its spot among DCI’s elite Top 12 ever since. 2025 marks the organization's milestone 85th anniversary of continuous operations and programming.
STAFF
CEO/Executive Director
Chris Holland
Drum Majors
Wes Booker, Joe Zishka, Maddie Wielinga Design
Keith Potter (Artistic Director), Michael Townsend (Design & Artistic Lead, Lead Choreographer, Guard Caption Head), Colin McNutt (Director of Percussion), Thom Hannum (Senior Advisor), Ryan George (Composer & Arranger), Leon May (Drill Designer), Heather Graham (Color Guard Caption Manager, Writer & Administrator), Gino Cipriani (Brass Caption Head), Iain Moyer (Front Ensemble Arranger), Michael Zellers (Electronics Designer) Brass
Gino Cipriani (Caption Head), Jarrett Lipman (Caption Manager), Steve Bentley, Evan Berry, Mark Nichols, Jon Virtue, James Crowley, Michael Terry, Sam DiMatteo, Josh Muñoz, Bethany Smith
Percussion
Colin McNutt (Director), Alex Beltran (Battery Manager), Zach Schlicher, Andrew Ricketts, Brian Perez, Daniel Gutiérrez, Jarod Sullivan, Kelly Murray, Andrew Macleay, Davis Matheney, Cisco Hance, TJ Choquette, Brian Spencer, Iain Moyer (Front Ensemble Director), Jason Ihnat (Front Ensemble Coordinator), Taylor Yozwiak (Front Ensemble Manager), Jim Ancona (Advisor), Ian Hale, Matt Albano, Tevis Tucker, Jay Rodriguez, Nick McConnaughey, Joe Tremper
Michael Townsend (Lead Designer & Choreographer, Director), Heather Graham (Caption Manager, Writer & Administrator), Aaron Gantt, Michael Maselli, Guillermo Cisneros, Joseph Danforth, Anthony Tapia
Visual
Aaron Bailey (Caption Head), Lin Daffron (Dance & Movement), Jennifer Hinshaw (Choreo & Movement), Johnny Escalante (Choreo & Movement), Justin Kline, Chris Martin, Akira Torrijos, Peter Bates, Patrick Cheney, Laura Vokey, Garrett Sitko, Hugh Alexander, Tim Handley Administration
Donna Monte (CFO), Jack Kaplan (Tour Dir, Dir of Membership), Aaron Bailey (Staff Coord), Howard Weinstein (Leadership Coach), Cheryl Rogers (Support Staff Coord), Hailey Francoeur (Tour Ops Mgr), Jacob Ford (Prod Ops Mgr), Jose Eslava (Merch), Alexia Beasley, Ryleigh Britton, Stephanie Aarons-Dennison, Marymason McWhorter, Hunter Britton, Sean Kelley, Mark Larrivee, Noah Gawarecki, Abby Reynolds, Marielle Chrupcala, Liana Gao, Dustin Garza, Jess Hayhurst, Rob Hardy (Lead Chef), Bryan McDonald (Chef), Kate Johnson (Costuming)
Medical
Vivien Tucker MD, Michael Stevens PA-C, Chip Vokey RN, Rick Vale RT, Brian Hebbard ATC, Nick Coyle AT, Jenni Johnson, Jaden Overbeck, Kristin Raney RN, Isabelle Agapito
Media
Julia Cardillo (Supervisor), Liset Garcia, Tony McCrackin (Photographers), Ross Beckman, Max Massaglia, Olivia Materetsky (Videographers)
Blue Knights Alumni of the Year
Josh Hallinan
The Blue Knights and Ascend Performing Arts are proud to recognize Josh Hallinan as the 2025 Blue Knight Alumni of the Year!
Josh joined the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps in 2018 and 2019 performing on baritone. After aging out of the corps, that didn’t stop him from becoming involved. Josh has helped numerous times at camps over the years with member registration, helping cook in the kitchen and you’ll even see his smile in the serving line. This past year he has been behind the scenes. From keeping our website running smoothly to troubleshooting at all hours, Josh has been an incredible asset to our team. He even led the transition of our website to a new platform— ensuring a seamless move without missing a beat.
Josh graduated from the Colorado School of Mines and currently works as a software engineer for Fantatics. com. He just celebrated his 4th anniversary with his beautiful wife, Anna and they are parents to three cats! Thank you, Josh, for your dedication, expertise, and continued commitment to the Blue Knights. This honor is well deserved!
JUDGES
Caption Judge Hometown
Chief Judge John Phillips Plainfield, IN
Contest Coordinator Tony DiCarlo
General Effect 1
General Effect 2
Visual Proficiency
Visual Analysis
Color Guard
Music Brass
Music Analysis
Music Field Percussion
Ted Wemhoff Frisco, TX
Darrin Davis Tulsa, OK
Jim Sturgeon Las Vegas, NV
Tom Slaughter
New Port Richey, FL
Damon Padilla Gainesville, GA
Mark Hoskins Marietta, GA
Ronnie Rios Harlingen, TX
John Phillips Plainfield, IN
INTRODUCING OUR ANNOUNCER - Ryan Bigley
Ryan Bigley is the PA Announcer for this year’s Corps Encore and Drums Along the Rockies. He is an alumnus of the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps, having marched trumpet in 2004 and 2005. He also marched mellophone with the Blue Knights Winter Brass Ensemble from 2005-2007.
After starting teaching in 2008, Ryan got the itch to announce professionally after being asked to announce for a basketball game at his school. He then went on to announce athletics for Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction, CO. While there, he also announced baseball for the Grand Junction Rockies (Colorado Rockies minor league affiliate), and the annual NJCAA JUCO World Series tournament, announcing the National Championship games in 2018, 2019, and 2022.
Currently, Ryan works for the Colorado Rockies as a super-utility for RockiesVision, and is the main Public Address Announcer for the Northern Colorado Hailstorm and Rain soccer teams, as well as athletics for MSU-Denver, University of Colorado, University of Northern Colorado, Rocky Mountain Color Guard Association (RMCGA), and the annual Estes Park International Tattoo. Ryan lives in Denver with his wife Lauren and their dog, Dante
Would like to thank the following people for their hard work on Drums Along the Rockies this year!
Janet Archibeque
Ryan Bigley
Michelle Bradley
Julie Cowles
Lily Foco
Lu Garcia
Doug Harris
GM Kuzma
Bob Mayhew
Deanne Mitchell-Gibboney
Jillian Oppegard
Mikayla Russell
David Russell
Ashley Russell
Tom Schemp
Bill Smith
Cindy Steichen
John Tyburczy
Addison Welchel
Ashlyn Welchel
John Welchel
Kendra Welchel
Gene Herring Endowed Memorial Scholarship
Gene Herring
The Gene Herring Memorial Scholarship was established in 2006 in memory of Gene “Geno” Herring, a longtime DCI volunteer and former corps director, by Gene’s son J.P. and his wife Joan.
Gene, or “Geno” as he was best known, started in the drum corps activity in 1979 when his son J.P. marched with the Knights of Geneseo. Gene started off as a cook and a general “do it all” volunteer, eventually becoming the Director of the corps. After J.P. aged out, Gene continued to volunteer for Drum Corps Midwest, Drum Corps International and Winter Guard International.
Based on the recollections of people who worked closely with Gene Herring, he was remembered as a remarkable volunteer whose first priority was to provide for the needs of every corps member. They saw him as a calming and loving force at events. It was this fondness for the corps members that guided J.P. and Joan to establish this memorial scholarship to support members of the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps. Recipients of this honor demonstrate a passion for the activity, display leadership skills and exhibit an overall concern for the people around them.
This year’s recipient of the Gene Herring Memorial Scholarship is Ava Dravland. Ava is a recent graduate of Benicia High School in Benicia, CA. Following her participation in the Blue Knights this summer, Ava plans to attend Diablo Valley College in Concord, CA majoring in Music Education.
Prior to becoming a member of the Blue Knights Ava was a member of Blue Devils “B”for two years. Upon completion of her marching career Ava’s goal is to continue in the activity with a desire to pass along the knowledge she has gained through her participation. Ava aspires to become proficient in the area of show design focusing on choreography and drill design.
This summer, in the spirit of the Gene Herring Memorial Award, Ava’s father Allen will be volunteering for the Blue Knights as one of our drivers for tour. Allen was a member of the Sacramento Freelances and spent two years with the Concord Blue Devils.
Preserve the experience...
The Blue Knights were founded in 1958 and became Ascend Performing Arts in 2010. The new name, Ascend Performing Arts was established as the umbrella organization for its ensembles, events, and educational outreach programs. The name change was made to more accurately express the scope and input of the organization, better positioning it for future growth.
2018 marked the organization’s 60 th year and the 1958 Legacy Roundtable was launched to provide a tool for long-term sustainability. The Ascend Performing Arts Endowment Fund was established by the following Charter Members:
extraordinaire, who did not have anyone who marched with the Blue Knights but considered the Blue Knights their family, left a bequest to ensure the long-term sustainability of the organization.
Florence Treffer and her family established the Jack R. Treffer Memorial Scholarship in 2017 to memorialize their late husband, father, and brother. The request was to invest the scholar ship fund in a fund to honor Drum Majors on a perpetual basis. Their request prompted action from the Ascend Board of Directors to establish the Legacy Roundtable.
J.P. and Joan Herring (left) established the Gene Herring Memorial Scholarship, renamed the Gene Herring Endowed Scholarship in 2006 to fund a scholarship memorializing J.P.’s father, Gene Herring. The scholarship supports a member and family who support volunteerism.
2019 Legacy Partners
Anonymous established the Renaissance Scholarships, renamed Renaissance Endowed Scholarships. Renaissance, in this instance, refers to many talents and for this scholarship refers to members who marched in ensembles in the winter and summer seasons, leaving little or no time for employment in order to raise funds. This anonymous donor established this scholarship to remove the pressure to pay fees and instead give members the time to prepare for the seasons’ shows.
Join the Roundtable by
• • • Establishing an endowed scholarship Creating your own named endowment Or simply by including Ascend Performing Arts in your will For more infor mation on creating your legacy, contact: development@ascendperformingarts.org Phone: 303 777-1937
Fred and Fae Tourtel, founders of the Blue Knights left a bequest to fulfill Fae’s dream for a building to house the Blue Knights.
Blue Devils
Variations on a Gathering
2025 REPERTOIRE
Uninvited by Alanis Morissette
Kashmir by John Bonham, Jimmy Page, Robert Plant
Atoms & Molecules by Dave Glyde
Quantum Energy Entanglement by Dave Glyde
Fuse by Nick Omiccioli
True Love by Hans Zimmer
Terraforming by Dave Glyde
Detach by Hans Zimmer
Founded in 1970 from a drum and bell corps, The Blue Devils hold the record for the most Drum Corps International World Championship titles. The corps has won a total of 21 times, most recently in 2023, and has not placed lower than fifth since 1975. The BD Performing Arts organization sponsors The Blue Devils and a variety of performing arts ensembles including two Open Class drum corps.
STAFF
Drum Majors
Connor Carbonell, Miguel FloresPadilla, Madelyn Williams
Design
Scott Chandler (Program Coordinator), David Glyde (Music Director), Jay Murphy (Visual Designer)
Brass
Cameron “Chip” Crotts (Caption Head), Richard Saucedo (Arranger, Music Ensemble Coordinator), Kevin Ronan (Arranger, Brass Coordinator), John Meehan (Arranger), Wayne Downey (Creative Consultant), James Rocillo, Errick Prince, Alex Blue V, Steve Vento, Albert Vela, Daniel Galloway, Patrick Geren, Gregory Horner, Molly Neal, Suzanne Dell, Mike Ary, John Brannon, Tim Leonelli, Patrick Yeh
Percussion
David Glyde (Arranger), Scott Johnson (Arranger, Caption Head), Ben Maughmer (Ensemble Coordinator), Rudy Garcia, Nicholas Parsons, Danny Pendergrass, Elijah Jones, Sean Clark, Nicholas Arce, Gilbert Nazari
Front Ensemble
Brian Dinkel (Arranger, Caption Head), Shawn Glyde (Drum Set Arranger, Sound Designer), Fred Smith (Electronics Sound Designer), Danny Gutierrez, Jack Mizutani, Hector Prado, Jazper Saldana, Marisa Spevak, Chavadith Tantavirojn, Michael Tran
Audio
Geoff Schoeffel (Manager), Michael Dunwoody, Rob Halpner, Alan Han, Colten Hyten, Justin Matthews, Izaiah McDowell, Tim Mitchell
Color Guard
Scott Chandler (Designer, Choreographer), Karl Lowe (Consultant, Designer), TJ Doucette (Caption Head), Robby Jacobson, Shavon Garcia (Choreographer), David Ziehm (Choreographer), Jose Pena, Marlieta Matthews, Jonathan Marrero
Visual
Jay Murphy (Visual Coordinator, Designer), Jaime Holly (Caption Head, Designer), Todd Ryan (Caption Head), John Bradford (Movement), Tony Smith (Consultant, Designer), Peter Beckhart, Zachary Carrasco, Chris Carrasco, Clark Cothran, Katherine Rasmussen, Shant Keuroghelian, Micah Laird, Kevin Tieck, Gary Briggs, Mike Reppucci, Jonathan Holmes, Gregory Sheets, Ken Karlin, Gary Briggs, Darren Stack (Prop/Set Fabricator)
Administration
Pat Seidling, Lainey Braatz, Sheryl Miles, Brian Murphy, Jaime Holly, Kelly Elder, Kristen Lichtenthal, Cameron Guerrero, Chasen Young, Keith Hales, Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser (Sr Educational Advisor for Leadership), Shirley Dorritie (Performance Strategies Coordinator)
Medical
Jessica Schloemer (Director) Christian Behier, Jaycee Bentley, Brandyn Bettencourt, Camilla Blanton, Arnav Chandra, Shannon Crowe, Jonathan Giangrosso, Kaitlin Hodgdon, Stephen Luk, Darrek Mullins, Matthew Petterson, Kassidy Rogers, Debbie Seeley, Kristy Seeley, Selina Shah, Victoria Shannon, Skyler Wilson
Media
Mike Zapanta (Director of Media Communications), Logan Shillinglaw IV (BD360 Producer), Brandon Gedalje (Director of Social Media), Jackson Arnold, Devon Asmus, Dylan Bridges, Robert Hamilton, Matt Phan, Paul "Sal" Salazar, Kenneth Swartout
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Leonard Robinson
Leonard Robinson’s dedication to the Blue Knights is a testament to his deep-seated belief in the organization’s mission and his unwavering commitment to its success. His contributions span decades and encompass a wide range of vital support roles.
Leonard marched soprano for the corps from 1989-1993. After aging out, Leonard actively engaged in crucial fundraising efforts, including working Blue Knights Bingo – a meaningful way for him to give back after benefiting from the generosity of others during his marching years. His involvement in concessions at Broncos games further highlights his dedication to the drum corps’ financial stability.
Leonard’s commitment to fostering a positive environment for the members is evident in his selfless act of grilling burgers for the corps at multiple Memorial Day camps, creating a sense of camaraderie and care. Recognizing the importance of a strong alumni network, Leonard was a key figure in organizing the reboot of the Alumni Association, strengthening connections among former members and providing invaluable support to the current drum corps.
Beyond alumni engagement and fundraising, Leonard consistently volunteered his time and energy to ensure the smooth operation of various corps activities, including assisting with camp check-in. His leadership in hosting the Alumni Biergarten and numerous other alumni events during the 2004 Drum Corps International Finals significantly elevated the alumni experience during a pivotal event.
Leonard was also instrumental in establishing cherished traditions, notably helping to start the Age-out Dog Tag tradition, a meaningful way to commemorate the dedication of graduating members. His support extended to the drum corps and their families through his participation in Pancake Breakfast on Family Day, fostering a welcoming and supportive atmosphere. Furthermore, he actively promoted the Blue Knights spirit through T-shirt and Patch sales at Drums Along the Rockies and celebrated the drum corps’ legacy through his participation in the Alumni Corps performance during the 60th Anniversary celebration.
Perhaps one of Leonard’s most significant and long-lasting contributions was his visionary management of the Blue Knights website from approximately 1998 to 2014. During this time, he was a true pioneer, implementing innovative features that were ahead of their time within the drum corps community. These included online camp registration and fee payment, Blue Knights Bingo scheduling, eCommerce souvenir sales, and an online membership information portal, and what was widely considered the premiere DCI scores database.
Leonard Robinson’s sustained commitment and diverse contributions across fundraising, community building, operational support, and technological innovation through the decades make him an exceptionally deserving candidate for the Blue Knights Hall of Fame. His dedication has had a tangible and lasting positive impact on the organization and the lives of countless individuals associated with the Blue Knights.
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Alex Factor
Alex Factor marched with the Blue Knights as a tuba player for four seasons, from 2011 to 2014, culminating in his role as Horn Sergeant in his age-out year. However, Alex’s commitment to the Blue Knights extended far beyond his time on the field.
Transitioning seamlessly into a dedicated volunteer, Alex took the initiative to revitalize the Alumni program, fostering a renewed sense of connection and engagement among former members. His passion for the organization led him to serve on the Ascend Performing Arts Board of Directors for many years, providing valuable guidance and leadership.
As a volunteer, Alex played a crucial role in ensuring a positive first impression for prospective members by leading the check-in process at Blue Knights BKXperience Audition camps and clinics. He empowered alumni to take ownership of this vital task, making it solely alumniled for several years. Recognizing the need for leadership development, Alex spearheaded the creation of Ascend Performing Arts’ BKXperience Perform leadership clinics and training program, held at Friendship Cup Marching Band Competitions and Drums Along the Rockies.
Alex’s dedication to the alumni community reached its pinnacle with the triumphant return of the Blue Knights Alumni Corps in 2018. He initiated this ambitious project two years prior, gathering input from alumni through “Alumni Roundtables” and engaging with them at Drums Along the Rockies. His tireless efforts in building a dedicated team, securing resources, and managing logistics were instrumental in the Alumni Corps’ successful performance.
Furthermore, Alex’s work with the alumni association sparked the creation of several enduring initiatives, including the very first class of the Blue Knights Hall of Fame, the Blue Knights Alumni Scholarship for both the drum corps and indoor percussion ensemble, the Blue Knights Alumni of the Year award, and the annual “History Knight” event, connecting current members with the drum corps’ rich heritage.
Outside of Ascend Performing Arts, Alex is enjoying adventures with his young family and works as a Technology Lead at Forbright Bank. Alex’s previous experience includes working as a Web Developer at U.S. Bank and MakeMusic, Inc, helping make music education accessible to all performers.
Alex embodies the enduring impact of the Blue Knights experience, applying the lessons learned over a decade ago to his life and continuing to strengthen the performing arts community. His ongoing leadership and dedication as an active alumnus are truly commendable.
Colts
Dubuque, IA • colts.org
In Restless Dreams
2025 REPERTOIRE
Sound of Silence by Paul Simon (inspired by Cody Fry)
Assassin by Jack Stratton (inspired by Cory Wong)
5 Peace Band by John McLaughlin
Sleep by Eric Whitacre
No One to Know One by Andy Akiho.
Founded in 1963 as the Junior Dukes, Colts was previously known as the Legionnaires and Colt .45 before adopting its current name in 1976. Since 1993, the corps has placed in the DCI World Championship Finals numerous times. In addition to both a World Class and an Open Class drum corps, the Colts Youth Organization also sponsors a summer band for students in fourth through eighth grades. The governor of Iowa has proclaimed the Colts “Iowa’s Ambassadors of Music.”
STAFF
Corps Director
Vicki MacFarlane
Drum Major Carissa Blumka
Design
Don Click (Program Director), Sean McElroy (Program Facilitator), Michael J. Miller (Brass), Josh Nelson (Battery), CJ Barrow (Front/Electronics), Fernando Rodriguez (Guard), Richard Hinshaw (Visual), Daniel Wiles (Visual Consultant), Sara Even (Audio Systems Designer), Mark Boettcher (Audio Consultant)
Brass
Chad Miller (Caption Head), David Abrams, Matt Bristow, Carli Castillon, Zac Chowning, Justin Diaz, Joe Galvin, Ryan Klitz, Steve Lyons, Kara Metzger, Ben Petrmichl, Caleb Tullius, Patrick Riley, Serio Amador, Nate Clark
Percussion
Josh Nelson (Caption Head), Matthew Howell (Battery Coordinator), Elanders Frazier, Jakob Alexandrian, Mario Sanchez, Oscar Rodriguez, Colin McKeon, Alex Pfiefer, Neo Greiner, Justus Marotz, Megan Hobbs, Nina Chamberlin, Tristan Garrison, Eric Zielsdorf, Keaanee Morgan, Mason Ferrantelli, Patrick Bantugan
Fernando Rodriguez (Caption Head), Skylar MacKensen (Choreographer), Leah Marsh Brown (Choreographer), Tim Newburn (Consultant), Byran Ayala, Xochi Villalobos, Marina Attaalla, Eric Gonzalez, Ryan Page, Michael Patton, Reagan Scherpe
Visual
Jack Borland (Caption Head), Austin Byers (Choreographer), Bridget Fleming, David Haven, Paul Circo, Conner Arndt, Ben Grimshaw, Robert Herrera, Jake Obrien, Aljhun Sindiong, Jonathan Amar, Jared Brockmeyer, Alejandro Cruz, Trevor Gagnon, Riley Dolan, PJ Sheehan
Administration
Jeff MacFarlane (Exec Dir), Kathleen Ballard (Asst Corps Dir), Alan Kiser (Acct), Justin Diaz (Media), Rachel Richardson (Photo/Video), Mike Lang (Tour Dir), Dean Luke (Ops), Dave Huntley (Tickets), Harlan Pfohl (Colt Cadets Dir), Nick Feingold (Prod Asst), Ella Burton (Tour), Jordan Coleman (Tour), Joey Barrios (Tour), Bryce Burgoyne (Food), Pam Kalkhoff (Food), Nic Englin (Souvies), McCade Tomczak (Souvies), Mark Blumka (Souvies), Kenny Schmertz, Joan Murray, Bob Moyers, Rhonda Palenske, Kevin Nuehring, Steve Sebastian, Tim Free, Ted Clausing (Drivers), Cathi Roberts (Thread Team), Dr. Steve Rock (MD), Samantha Jacobs (ATC), Emma Bruce (H&W), Tim Howey (Paramedic), Bri Wessels (NP), Victoria Haubrich (RN), Ken Driscoll (President), Steve LaHood (VP)
ASCEND HONOR ROLL DONORS
Since its inception in 1958 as a drum and bugle corps, the Blue Knights has developed into a multi-faceted youth performing arts organization which serves thousands each year. Performing arts ensembles, educational outreach, and multiple performance events all speak to an organization that has evolved through time, meeting the needs of the Blue Knights and the community it serves.
In 2010, after an exhaustive rebranding process, the Board of Directors announced Ascend Performing Arts as the name of their parent organization of the Blue Knights and associated education and events. The name change was made to express the scope and impact of the organization more accurately, better positioning it for future growth and funding.
Ascend Performing Arts strives to promote and support the performing arts in the Rocky Mountain region. The organization partners with Colorado music education and other performing arts organizations to benefit youth interested in the performing arts. Ascend’s mission promotes four areas of focus called our 4 E’s: Education, Ensembles, Events and Entertainment.
Thank you to all our donors who have supported Ascend through the following:
Friends of Blue Knights: Friends was established in 1998 to help the organization with general operating costs.
Colorado Gives Day: State-wide 24 hour online fundraiser to “Give where you live..” sponsored by Community First Foundation and First Bank on the second Tuesday in December.
Rocky Mountain Rivalry: A weeklong fundraiser in July, competing against the Troopers and Mandarin Drum Corps, to offset the cost of summer tour for the drum corps.
Online 50/50 Raffle: A fundraiser where the purchaser of the winning ticket wins 50% of the tickets sold.
Facebook/Meta Fundraisers: Donations set up by individuals for birthdays or to help Ascend Fundraising.
Scholarships:
Memorial scholarships set up for Daniel J. Burke, Keith Nygaard, Del and Dinah Owens. Alumni Scholarships sponsored by the Alumni Association Jeff Queen Snare Scholarship: set up through recurring donations by alumni Jeff Queen
Join the HONOR ROLL OF DONORS!
Donations, big or small, are accepted all year through direct mail or through the online donation link. Make your donation at: www.ColoradoGives.org/BlueKnights
Or Send a check to:
Donations
Ascend Performing Arts
3538 Peoria Street, Unit 500 Aurora, CO 80020
Designate
January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2024
Thank you! Your donations helped Ascend Performing Arts preserve its educational programs and ensembles.
$10,000 OR MORE)
ANONYMOUS
$5,000-$9,999
David Hurt
$2,500-$4,999
Rob Batchelder
Kathy Black
Gregory “GM” Kuzma
$1,000-$2,499
Faustino Abella Jr.
Janet Archibeque
Jeffrey Earl Bickford
Neil Corvino
Edward DiCarlo
Penny Evans
Shannon Fermelia
Edward Flodin
Caleb Neil Florence
Schlessman Family Foundation
Lu Garcia
Heather Hicks
Tony King
Chris Kotterman
Teiko McDougald
Cheryl Nygaard
Joseph Peevey
Christie Reimer
Erin Truax
Scott Weidner
$500-$999
Mark Arnold
Mike Baldonado
Matthew Bell
John Blomberg
Ernest D’Ambrosio
Daniel Diekhoff
Cary E Edwards
Jeffery Erb
Keenan Evans
Colorado Gives Foundation
Andy Frankwick
Darrell Griffin
Joan Herring
Leigh Huseman
Karen Kucharski
Gary Lima
John Lynass
Vicki Lynch
Carley Metsker
Jackson Minton
Sean Musser
Jessica Niles
Joseph Catarino Perez
Joseph G. Ratterman Jr
Ann Marie Scrivner
Sonya Shaffer
Cici Smith
Wendy Stookesberry
Haley Vogt
Judy Wilner
Regina Wimmer
Brooke Wisdom
$250-$499
KTom & Fran Scott
Katie Anderson
Thomas Beresford
Veronica Berry
Kristin Boyce
Michelle Bradley
Janet Burns
Skyler Cappelli
Michelle Ciriello
Donna Couch
Jason Curtis
Nicholas D’Ambrosio
Susan D Dalgleish
Elizabeth Danekind
Kelli Edwards
Kathryn Elliott
Mark Falzarano
Brandy Ferrer
Thelma Fung
Joseph Halbert
Rich Hem
Amy Hemingway
Angie Henslee
Ann Huffman
Baxter Irwin
Renee Jackson
Byron Jenings
Gloria Jorgensen
Raphael Klug
Beverly Kuzma
Nancy McGraw
Rebecca & Bryan Parman
William Perry
Brent Peters
Richard Poormon
Stephanie Preto
Paul Proctor
Jeff Queen
Bryant Rankin
David Rowe
Pat Salwerowicz
Jana Simpson
Joseph Smith
Ben Stanfield
Casey Stewart
Ellen Stotler
Kari Van Duren
Wes Walton
Steve Walton
Paul Williams
Shannon Wood
$100-$249
JLianna Adams
Jason Adams
Frances Alexander
Gregory Andersen
Orlando Archibeque
Sherry Armstrong
Luke Arnhols
Stephanie Augustus
ross barnhart
Daegan Blood
Shawn Bockstahler
Eric Anthony Boyle
Monique Boyle
Joseph Braxel
Thomas Bronson
BJ Brooks
Heather Brown
Teresa Bugnon
Debbie Burlingame
Gregg Chase
Karen Chipley
David Cole
Rene Contreras
Wendy Craven
Giulio DeLuca
Kari Devine
Ben Dill
Ashley Drayer
Matthew Dronberger
Lisa Durrenberger
Elizabeth Evans
Jacob Evans
Scott Factor
Shari Farthing-Brooks
David & Chris Ferguson
Denney Fifield
Greg Francis
Donna Friend
Loretta Garcia
Adam Gardner
Chris Garza
James and Karen Gleason
Scott & Kristyn Glendenin &
Mulloy
Jack A Greenlee
John Griffin
Anthony Hall
Robert Harberg
Candi Harker
Steven Hipke
Christopher Holland
Charles Holt
Brendon Hoyt
Lori Ingles
Sharon Jarrett
Danielle Justice
Carl Kantner
Randall Kopsa
Christine Kretschmer
Vera Lamarsh
Tim Lewis
Debra Mabery
Scott McDonald
Hal Melia
Kïrsten Miller
Michael Moore
Robert Morris
Jane Nelson
Scott Newell
Jamie Nicholson
Randy Niles
Eugene J. Nuccio
Michael Odom
Michael Oliver
Jillian Oppegard
Bryce Riley
Ericka Samaniego
Rosemary Sapegin
Cecile J Sapienza
Gary Schell
Leslie Schluter
Nancy Schmidt
Steven Seagle
Lindsay Seeley
Jason Shin
Victor Simpson
Tabitha Sloan
Jillian Snyder
Makensie Stallings
Cindy Steichen
Lora Stevens
Mason Stillman
Stan Stoll
Juanita Tate
Veronica Thomas
Roberto Tiscareno
Steve Van Ausdall
Pamela Vaughan
Jason and Kelly Waltrip
Kenny Ward
Erin Ware
Marty Wedel
Joanne Wille
Christopher Williams
Tyler Worley
Alenka Znidarsic
Up to $100
Brett & Linda Pelham
Kathy Adams
Susan Adams
Wendy Alexander
Natalia Alvarenga
Ashley Anderson
Xochitl Ashpole
Gregory Asplund
Amy Baum
Roxi Beegles
Olander & Sylvia Benson
Robert Billings
Therese Bohde
Ariana Borla
Betty Ann Boyd
Sean Brady
Ashleigh Bravo
Rosie Bretthauer-Mueller
Jill Brimhall
Julie Brooks
Jeannie Bueno
Kathleen Carroll
Lorraine Carter
JJ craven
Annabella, Julie, Tony DaGiau
Tim Dailey
Scott Dallas
Addy Dean
Deborah DeFelice
Cecily Duffield
Sheri Dvorak
Marsha Dykshorn
Valerie Emperador
Laura Englander
Karen Ennis
Brends Faz-Villarreal
Buffy Fletcher
Michael Flores
Glenn Ford
Teri Francis
Laura Frey
Joie Frye
Dan Fuhr
Christopher Garcia
Donna Gaughen
James Geiger
David Gerland
Christy Given
Kenneth Glennon
Ryan Green
Julie Halfmann
Ethan Hall
Mark Hartman
frank helmerich
Michelle Henderson
Ricky Hernandez
Colby Hewitt
Scott Hubbard
Mary Kennedy
Gerilyn Keohane
Matthew Krum
Emily Kutolowski
Robert R. Larsen
Iris Lee
Judith Madsen
Jyoti Manda
Marie Marchand
Justin Mathis
Kathleen McKean
Julie McOuat
Lori Meeker
Theodore Michalakes
Constance Miller
Frederick Miller
Rebecca Mills-Honstein
Sally Morse
Felicity Muench
George Nelson
Nicolette Nesladek
Mary Newell
Lindsey Newnes
Anthony Nuccio
Mark OConnor
Rachel Okada
Debbie Olivas
Jodi ONeill
Christopher Painter-Wakefield
John Palazzo
Rachel Parker
Jim Paxton
Scott Pegues
Sean Pettitt
Stephen Rickershauser
Janna Robinett
Ambera Robinson
Ernest Rockett
Shaun Roos
Beegles Roxi
Rickee Ryplewski
Nicholas Sampson-Wainwright
Jessica Schell
Isaac Schell
Jeffrey Schultz
Connie Shank
Gerald Shin
Carol Shorten
John & Carol Singer
Scott Smith
Francis B Spicer
Mary Starn
Stacey Studnicki
Janice Trees
Steve Trujillo
Susan Tubutis
Jacquelyn Tuck
Andrew Van Hoesen
Marilyn S. Vaughn
Yolanda Villalobos
Kenton Wallis
Joy Wasendorf
Cadence Luella Wehneman
Holly Welty
Stephanie West
Elena Wilken
Emily Winter
Jeffrey Wray
Jenna York
Karen Young
Olivia Zenzinger
The Final Sunset
2025 REPERTOIRE
Embarking and Setting Sail by Thomas Bergersen
Many Mothers by Junkie XL
In This Heart by Sinead O'Connor
Funeral for a Friend by Elton John, Bernard Taupin
Symphony No. 2 in C
Minor "Resurrection" by Gustav Mahler
Original Music by Paul & Sandi Rennick
Founded in 1957 by Jim Jones in Casper, Wyoming, the Troopers are one of the most historically significant groups in the marching arts. Known as "America’s Corps," the Troopers pioneered the modern drum corps touring model and were a founding member of Drum Corps International in 1972. With their iconic Western theme and commitment to patriotic storytelling, the corps quickly became a fan favorite. A 12-time DCI finalist, the Troopers’ motto — Honor, Loyalty, Dedication — reflects the values that continue to guide them as they inspire future generations of performers.
STAFF
Executive Director
Michael Gough
Corps Director
Mary Duerkop
Drum Majors
Simon Beltran, Vittoria Pagliardini, Ritika Deivasigamani, Susannah Wilkinson, Addison Wood Design
Tim Snyder (Program Coordinator, Brass Arranger), Andrew Ebert (Drill Design), Paul Rennick, Sandi Rennick (Percussion Arrangers), Justin Shelton (Sound Design, Music Coord), Christopher McCarthy (Visual Coord, Choreographer), Molly FavretEdrington (Aesthetic Design), Michael James, Tykeem Rainey, Paul Simondac, Mikey Perkins (Choreographers), Carl Diefenbach, Tyler Edrington, Jason Robb (Consultants) Brass
Matthew Parker (Caption Head), Carol Weirich (Caption Head), Patrick Keeley (Asst Caption Head), Samuel Elmore, Ben Fetzer, Tom Lizotte, Jonathan Leveque, Ryan Haines, Brian Reel, Owen Rhoads, Ethan Hacker, Cameron Honnen, Celia Solano, Joey Salinas, Gabriel Gallegos, Jeremiah Moya, Jason Nippert, Andrew Reader, Parker Snell, Andrew Tye
Percussion
Lauren Teel (Caption Head), David Cavazos (Battery Coordinator), Noah Avelar, Brittany Baptista, Brice Freeman, Matt Hammond, Kaleb Hascall, Aidan Hatcher, Alexander Irvine, Matthew Joslin, Izaiah McDowell, Webb Sheely, Kyle Skinner, Stephen Symank, Patrick Tierney, Noe Trevino, Bryce Turner, Eliana Yamouni, Houston Youngman
Audio
Justin Ratcliff (Caption Head), Branden Burris, Zach Elgin, Seth Lampert, Esme McDermott, Patrick O'Rourke, Jaelyn Sanvicente, Whitney Farrior (Intern), Cristian Good, Tyler Hanson, Jonathan Yoo (Consultants) Color Guard
Dr. Chelsea Toner (Caption Head), Casey McCoy (Asst Caption Head), Antonio Ayala, Hannah Clark, Kyle Guinn, Sarah Heath, Sarah Johnson, Adara Joiner, Chloe Uelman, Kayla Umana, Kevin Monteiro, Elizabeth Calhoun, Christopher Calhoun (Consultants)
Visual
Joshua Brenneis (Caption Head), Tim Heichelheim, Alejandro Tavarez (Asst Caption Heads), Téa Gagliardi, Jamar Morrison, Jamil Sayih, Mark Willis (Choreographers), Robby Chapa, Stu Cruz, Mike Delgado, Nicole Diamond, Kelvin Guevara, Mason Hicks, Kahona Nakayama, Kenny Phetmanivong, Logan Rice, Kanon Shibuta, Sharbel Skaff, Tyler Williams
Administration
Mike Ottoes (CEO), Travis Sinsabaugh (Leadership/Conducting Coach), Mat Krum (Office Mgr/Bingo Ops), Amy Roberts (Dev Dir), Benjamin Corneliusen (Tour Mgr), Dajia Simmons (Log Mgr), Sam Parks (Asst Log Mgr), Scott Puryear (Ops Mgr), Matthew Murphy (Driver), Karen Nichols (Driver, Volunteer Coord), Bernard Rosenberg (Member Liaison), Jen Kowalski (Parent Liaison), Jesse Aguilar, Carlos Alicea, Kayla Gann (Admin Assts), Michael Brunk, Cameron Elder (Media), Isabella Aguiar (Student Researcher), Kari Gilbert, Michelle Ottoes (Food Crew Leads), Laura Divine (Food Team), Ryan Scott (Prop Mgr), Dr. Rebecca Parker (Med Dir), Nina Bill (Athletic Trainer), Leslee Ball-Scovel, Elizabeth Bishop, Rob Cameron, Natalie Ellis, Aileen Jansen, Kimberlie Pearson, Chastity Saunders, Ryan Scott (Medical), Ray Poulain (Souvenir Mgr)
SCHOOL OF MUSIC, THEATRE, AND DANCE
Are you interested in joining the largest and most visible student organization on the CSU campus? Do you want to entertain thousands of people each fall? Are you ready to represent the state of Colorado on a national level?
Would like to thank our sponsors for supporting our ensembles and events!
