Troopers Announce New Addition To The Design Team
Sound Designer
John Davidson
John R. Davidson is a five-time Emmy Award Winning Sound Designer with over 20 years of experience in sound design for theatrical film and television broadcast. Recently, he was honored by his peers with 2 ITVA Peer Gold Awards for his sound design work for the Smithsonian Networks “Titanic’s Final Mysteries”. John currently serves as Senior Sound Designer at Interface Media Group in Washington, D.C. where his client list includes PBS, AMC, DISNEY, Discovery Channel, ESPN, HBO, National Geographic, Showtime, Starz and Universal Studios to name a few. John has sound designed and audio produced over 2,000 long-format award-winning documentaries, music performances, promos and feature films, utilizing his expertise in 5.1 surround sound design and mixing.
John is also an active contributor to the advancement of the field of recording arts for film and television, having served as Chief Panel Judge for Sound Design and Music Composition categories for NATAS, the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. He continues to serve as an “Artist-in-Residence” for Universities throughout the US in the field of Sound Design and Audio production.
John received his Bachelors of Music from James Madison University, with an emphasis in Percussion and Audio Engineering.
According to Robert W. Smith, Brass Arranger, “John Davidson brings a wealth of talent and experience to the 2016 Troopers! His work in film and television has received international acclaim including multiple Emmy awards. John began his musical education and career in the school band program. His return to the marching and pageantry arts brings state-of-the-art sound design to the Troopers and an exciting new program for drum corps fans!”
According to Donnie VanDoren, Program and Staff Coordinator, "Sound design and the production of soundscapes has become an integral part of the musical mix and presentation in drum corps today. Up to this point, the Troopers have only scratched the surface. I am overjoyed to have a professional sound designer like John Davidson on our design team ... his real world expertise and project experiences will help us more forward in a way that is both logical and artistic."
Troopers Announce New Additions To Color Guard Staff
Alyson Downs, Color Guard Tech
Alyson is a graduate of Casper College with an Associates's degree in Dance. She is currently attending the University of Central Oklahoma pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Dance.
She currently works for the Arts Council of Oklahoma City as a dance instructor. Alyson also works for Yukon High School in Yukon, Oklahoma as a color guard instructor and choreographer during both the fall and winter seasons. Alyson was a member of the Troopers Drum and Bugle Corps color guard for eight seasons, aging out in 2015. She served as a captain from 2013-2015 and received the Troopers Member of the Year award in 2013. Alyson also performed with Eclectix Independent Winter Guard in 2015.
Alyson is honored and excited to be continuing her career with the Troopers as an instructor and is looking forward to the 2016 season.
Jimi Burciaga, Color Guard Tech
Jimi is a Native of Adrian, Michigan, where he studied Criminal Justice and dance. He has marched with the Glassmen Drum & Bugle Corps, R2 Performance Group, Crown Guard, and Zydeco World Guard. He moved to Dayton, Ohio in 2000 where he studied dance with the Dayton Ballet School for nine years. Jimi has taught several high schools and independent colorguards throughout the US, including Northmont High School, Springboro High School, and the Miamisburg Scholastic World Guard for 12 years, where he was also one of the directors for 3. Jimi is very excited to be a part of the colorguard staff for the Troopers this coming season.
Carlos Herrera, Color Guard Tech
Carlos Herrera is a west coast transplant living in the mid-west trying to further his education with the performing arts. A So-Cal native, Carlos went to John W. North High School where his color guard journey first started. After high school, Carlos dedicated his time and efforts to programs such as Riverside City Marching Band, Fantasia Winter Guard and The Blue Devils Drum & Bugle Corps.
Following his age out summer with The Blue Devils, Carlos moved to Austin, Texas to learn new styles and continue learning under renowned educators John Escalante and Mykail Costner. Working with programs such as The Ronald Reagan Marching Band, John B. Connally High school, and The Dripping Springs High School was just the beginning for the amount of knowledge there was to learn in a foreign land. He also performed with Cypress Independent and discovered a new method to which he can apply his teachings to.
Using his Color guard talents, Herrera has expanded his performing resume by performing professionally on stage show at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Virginia, and even going over seas with The Blue Devils International. Herrera is currently living in Indiana teaching at Pike High School and studying once again, a new stye in a foreign land with The Pride of Cincinnati.
Herrera wishes to be a well rounded educator in all aspects of the activity, not limiting himself to one specific style or any specific region. He is very eager to work with The Troopers Color Guard while continuing to learn and pursue his passion for teaching this upcoming summer for the 2016 season.
Robert Morales, Color Guard Tech
Robert Morales joins the Troopers Color Guard staff for the first time summer 2016. A native of Southern California, Morales has been involved in the performing arts since the age of 12. Joining color guard at Olive Middle School in 2003 he was hooked from the first drop spin. From there he marched four years of high school color guard at Sierra Vista High School (2003-2007) in Baldwin Park, CA. Morales then went on to performing in such programs as Impulse Drum & Corps (2004/2005) Diamanté Winter Guard (2007/2008) Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps (2008-2011) Fantasia Winter Guard (2012,2014/2015) & Blue Devils International Corps 2015. Robert has also been apart of Hollywood, appearing in commercials, independent film and the hit TV show "Glee". Morales has served on staffs with groups like Ayala High School from Chino Hills, CA (2008-2015) & Academy Drum & Bugle Corps (2014/2015) from Tempe, Arizona. Not bound to just color guard, Morales is studying Dance at Mt.San Antonio College in Walnut, CA where he hopes to transfer to Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle, Washington to further his studies in movement and pursue a career as a performer. In his free time Morales enjoys running, yoga, photography, hiking and appreciating the world around us.
Heather Lamantia, Color Guard Tech
Heather Lamantia is a native of Dayton, Ohio. She graduated from Kettering Fairmont High School in 2004, and continued to study Criminal Justice with a minor in Spanish for 3 years at WSU. She went on to teach at Fairmont for 6 years, until she moved to Indianapolis in 2012.
Her Colorguard marching history includes Kettering Fairmont 2001-2004, Capital Regiment 2004-2005, & Zydeco 2007, 2012. After her years teaching at Fairmont, her teaching experience includes Decatur Central, Avon A, Franklin High School, & Zydeco A Colorguard.
She recently moved to Austin, Texas with her family to pursue her teaching career there as well. She currently directs at Hutto High School, as well as teaching at Anderson High School, Lake Travis High School, and ATX Independent A.
She's more than honored to get the opportunity to expand her teaching experience with Troopers Colorguard this summer.
Troopers are pleased to welcome back Cameron Honnen as Horn Sergeant
Cameron Honnen, Horn Sergeant
"I’m very excited and grateful to return as the Horn Sergeant for the Troopers Drum & Bugle Corps’ 2016 season! Last year, I was given the opportunity to lead the 2015 hornline and give back to the members and this drum corps as the horn sergeants before me have also done. If you are looking for a place to audition and are unsure of where to go, please consider the Troopers. The members of this drum corps are like a family and will make anyone feel welcome. I have been here for five years, and couldn’t imagine spending my age-out year with any other corps! I cannot wait to continue the success from last season into this season and make even more progress than before. The 2016 Troopers will unquestionably have the strongest hornline in its long and proud history; join us and be part of something extraordinary!"
“We welcome Cameron back as Horn Sergeant for his Age Out year and are pleased he is able to return as injuries prohibited him from finishing the 2015 season” said Corps Director Fred Morris.
Troopers Welcome Back Paul Rennick & Announce Additions To Percussion Staff
Paul Rennick, Percussion Arranger & Supervisor
Paul Rennick is Principal Lecturer in percussion at the University of North Texas where he has served on the faculty since 1991. Paul is a leading figure in the world of marching percussion and percussion education, with a long history of successful students and renowned performing ensembles. He has been a featured clinician and a guest artist worldwide, with appearances at National and International events for many top professional music organizations.
Since 1989 Paul has written and designed the competitive shows for the 16-time Percussive Arts Society National Champion University of North Texas Indoor Drumline. He is also percussion coordinator for the Nationally recognized UNT Green Brigade Marching Band.
Paul served as the director of percussion for the Phantom Regiment Drum & Bugle Corps from 2003-2010, winning the Drum Corps International Fred Sanford Award for Percussion Performance three times in five years (2006, 2008, 2010), and the DCI Championship in 2008. Paul is currently the percussion coordinator for the Santa Clara Vanguard Drum & Bugle Corps.
Paul was a design team member, music composer/arranger, instructor, and percussion manager for the Tony & Emmy Award-winning Broadway production Blast! He is also an active performer, appearing as a featured soloist with the UNT Wind Symphony on the DVD recording Percussive Palooza, and related showcase concert at PASIC 2008. He is also as a featured soloist on the University of North Texas Percussion Ensemble recording Vespertine Formations (2009).
Paul is currently an artist/clinician with Dynasty USA, Remo Inc., the Avedis Zildjian Co., Roland, Planet Waves, and a Signature Artist with Innovative Percussion, Inc.
Dan Allen, Battery Coordinator
Dan has actively participated in the marching arts for over ten years as a performer, educator, show designer, and snare drum specialist. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering and a Music Minor from Texas Christian University. During his time as a snare drummer there, he performed in competition at the 2006 PASIC College Drum line Contest, a group that swept all eligible captions and took 1st place.
In the summers, he played snare in the Drum Corps International for four years: Pioneer, in 2005 and 2006, under the expert leadership of Stuart Spoon and Tyler Orbison, and with Phantom Regiment, under the direction of Paul Rennick, in 2007 and 2008. He aged out as the drumlins section leader during the summer of Spartacus, a show that earned Phantom Regiment a Fred Sanford High Percussion Award and a DCI World Championship Gold Medal.
In the fall of 2008, he represented TCU at PASIC in the College Snare Drum Solo category, and was awarded 1st place with an original solo called “On Shoulders of Giants” - a tribute to the greats that made the art of rudimental snare drum what it is today.
As an educator, Dan has taught more than 20 high schools throughout Texas and Colorado was on staff for both the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps and the Blue Knights Percussion Ensemble, as well as the Crossmen, the Phantom Regiment, the Santa Clara Vanguard, and the Vilgilantes. He has learned a great deal from some of the best instructors in the activity including Dr. Brian West, Dave Hall, Paul Rennick, Ralph Hardimon, Jeremy Noyes, Ellis Hampton, Denny Carty, Mike Hodges, and of course Struat Spoon and Tyler Orbison. He is also extremely fortunate to teach the Coppell High School drumlins under the leadership of Zach Scheer.
"Daniel brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the percussion program at the Troopers. His track record and proven success will help bring us to the next level and make the program even more solid. I’m excited to welcome Daniel to the team." said Paul Rennick Percussion Arranger & Supervisor.
Jon Anderson, Battery Specialist
Jonathan Anderson began his study of music at a very young age. Beginning with piano in his fourth year, he was encouraged heavily to improvise. By the time he was twelve he had began composing and producing C.D.s of music with the use of a computer program called Digital Orchestrator Pro. It was at this time that Jonathan first found his love for percussion. In 7th grade he signed up for band and auditioned to be in the percussion program. By his senior year he was one of the top performers in his high school band and was a member of a Fort Worth-local independent indoor drumline named Surround Sound. In 2003 Jonathan was accepted to the University of North Texas and continued with his studies both in percussion and composition. He took his first teaching job at the age of eighteen at Billy Ryan High School in Denton, Texas. His first experience marching in the world of DCI was in 2005 with the Carolina Crown marching the Tenor Drums. Jonathan continued in 2006 with the Boston Crusaders and ended his DCI marching career with Paul Rennick and the Phantom Regiment in their incredibly successful 2007 season. Through his five and a half years of study at North Texas, Jonathan took part in almost every possible percussion ensemble available. Most noteable from this list was his participation in both of the UNT A-Line's final performances in the PASIC Drumline Competition (2005 and 2008). He was also a lead member in the prestigious 2:00 Steel Band for most of his University career and even wrote for the ensemble multiple times. In 2007 Jonathan published his first piece through Innovative Percussion and has had many publications to follow. After his graduation, he worked a handful of jobs at different successful locations including: Marcus High School (2010, 2011), Guyer High School and Boston Crusaders (2011, 2012). He has spent the passed four years assisting head percussion director James Smith in building the percussion program at Sherman High School. Sherman has had much success recently, winning first place and highest caption awards at most competitions they attend. Jonathan has been flown across seas multiple times to work with ensembles like The Yugakkan Concert and Marching Band based in Ishikawa, Japan and has also been flown around the world to work with smaller ensembles performing his original works.
"I am happy to welcome Jon Anderson back to the percussion staff. Jon has an enormous amount of successful experience over the past 10 years with high level DCI and WGI groups. He runs an outstanding, top level high school program in the Dallas, TX area. We are all excited to have Jon work with our members and be part of this outstanding staff." said Paul Rennick Percussion Arranger & Supervisor.
Troopers announce Visual Team for 2016
Bob Barfield, Visual Caption Head
"Bob comes to us with a great deal of experience and success in leading a visual technique program ... his track record in the marching arts speaks for itself. Bob is one of those guys that can make an immediate and positive impact on the members, the visual program, and the organization", says, Vandoren, Program Coordinator.
Robert Barfield is currently in his 23rd year of teaching high school band, and his 3rd year at White Knoll High School. His first 19 years were spent teaching in the state of Florida public school system since 1992. He was the Associate Director of Bands for the Tarpon Springs High School Leadership Conservatory for the Arts from 1999 – 2012. His responsibilities at Tarpon Springs High School included teaching the Marching Band, Jazz Ensembles and Jazz Combos, Wind Ensemble, instructor in Brass Pedagogy, Music Theory and Technology, and overseeing the Solo and Ensemble process. In addition, Mr. Barfield taught the Leadership Skills Development course, which is required of all freshman enrolled in the Leadership Conservatory for the Arts at Tarpon Springs High School. During his tenure at Tarpon Springs High School, the Marching Band was a 6-time Bands of America National Class Champion, and was an elite top 12 Finalist every time they attended the Grand National Championships in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Wind Ensemble performed around the United States at some of the most prestigious concert halls in the country, including Carnegie Hall, Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center, The Kennedy Center, and Chicago Symphony Hall. The Jazz Ensemble performed at the University of North Texas Jazz Festival twice, and was selected to perform at the Savannah Swing Central Jazz Competition two times. In addition, they were the runner up band at the Essentially Ellington Regional Jazz Band Festival in Lafayette, Louisiana in the spring of 2012. In 2010, they were chosen as the National Winner for the Mark Of Excellence National Jazz Ensemble Contest. Mr. Barfield was also a director of the community youth Jazz Ensemble at the Ruth Eckerd Hall Performing Arts Center in Clearwater, Florida. He was a teacher in their jazz preparatory course for 9 years, which met weekly and included students from all over the Tampa Bay area, and annually performed at the Clearwater Jazz Holiday.
In 2012, Mr. Barfield was the Head Band Director and Assistant Fine Arts Supervisor at Robert Vela High School in Edinburg, Texas. His responsibilities there were to open up and start the first music program in the school’s first year, and serve the district as a Fine Arts Supervisor.
Mr. Barfield has also been involved in the drum and bugle corps activity for over 30 years, having marched for 4 years in the Suncoast Sound drum and bugle corps, and instructed several different drum corps over the years. Mr. Barfield served as the Visual Caption head for the Carolina Crown and the Boston Crusaders, and as a visual consultant for the Blue Stars Drum and Bugle Corps. Mr. Barfield is now the Visual Caption Head for the Troopers Drum and Bugle Corps, a position he just accepted in the fall of 2015.
Mr. Barfield graduated Summa cum Laude form the University of North Florida with a Bachelors of Arts in Music Education. While there he was a member of the prestigious Jazz Ensemble I. During his time there, he performed with such jazz greats as Louie Bellson, Pat Metheny, James Moody, Randy Brecker, Eddie Daniels, Marcus Roberts, Elaine Elias, Rich Matteson, Bunky Green, Bill Prince, the Airmen of Note, and the Count Basie Orchestra just to name a few.
He is a member of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME), the South Carolina Band Director’s Association (SCBDA), and past member of the International Association of Jazz Educators, the Florida Music Educators Association, the Florida Bandmasters Association, and the Pinellas County Music Educators Association.
Mr. Barfield is also has a TI:ME level 2 certification in music technology. In addition to his duties at White Knoll High School, Mr. Barfield enjoys an active schedule as an adjudicator, drill designer and guest clinician throughout the country. Mr. Barfield was the guest conductor of the Maine All-State Jazz Band in January of 2010. Mr. Barfield has been recognized several times in the “Who’s Who Among America’s High School Teachers”. Just recently, Mr. Barfield was selected to serve on the instructional staff for the Bands Of American Rose Bowl Honor Band. He will be a part of the team that performs at the 2017 Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena, California.
"We are very excited to have Bob Barfield back with us. Bob's brief period of time with us last year really aided our visual programming. We look forward to what Bob and his team have in store for us in the upcoming 2016 season", said Corps Director Fred Morris.
Christopher Scott Turner, Visual Tech
Christopher (Chris) Scott Turner has been designing, writing, teaching, consulting and adjudicating the pageantry arts for over seventeen years across the continental United States. Chris carries a well diversified field of organizations spanning from Winterguards, Indoor Percussion Ensembles, Drum and Bugle Corps as well as Symphonic and Theater ensembles. His zest and commitment to youth education and the arts is evident through his creativity, excellence and experience.
Born in central North Carolina, Chris attended Western Carolina University performing with the acclaimed “Pride of the Mountains” Marching Band, Athletic Bands and attending the School of Music as an Euphionium/Music Education Major under the studio instruction of Dr. Kenneth Kroesche. In 1997 Chris relocated to East Carolina University in Greenville, NC where he received his Bachelors. From 1996-1998 Chris served as the Drum Major for Tarheel Sun Drum and Bugle Corps. Mr. Turner served on the Visual Staff of the Boston Crusaders Drum & Bugle Corps from 2002 until 2007 as a Lead Visual Instructor and Movement Technician under the direction of Howard Weinstein and Visual Caption Head Robert (Bob) Barfield. In 2002 a move to the Tampa Bay area brought Chris into the Tarpon Springs Outdoor Performance Ensemble family (2014 BOA Grand National Champions & 7 time BOA-AA & AAA Class National Champions) where Chris continues in service assisting his long time mentor and colleague Kevin Ford with product and stage design. In 2008 and 2009 Chris joined the Blue Stars Drum & Bugle Corps Visual Staff in the same capacity serving as a Visual Specialist for this DCI World Championship Finalist. Chris has also has instructed the WGI Independent World Class; Carolina Thunder Percussion Ensemble from Charlotte, NC in 1999 and 2000 and the Forza East Independent Percussion Ensemble from 2011 to 2014.
Pulling from his experience and talents both on and off the music & arts stage, Chris is a dynamic and versatile writer/designer across several performance art mediums. His talent for creating entertaining, intriguing and aesthetically visual productions speaks to his expertise in designing truly magical moments that resound with both performer and audience alike. An in demand designer, Chris’ productions spanning stage, floor, field and visual art have received national recognition. Several of his ensembles are perennial BOA, WGI and DCI finalists as well as champions on the national stage.
Currently Chris Turner resides in Morehead City, NC after relocating from the Greater Tampa Bay area. Chris can be reached via email at: chris@mlcreative.co
Ensembles of Note Include:
Tarpon Springs Leadership & Music Conservatory 2002 - Present
Boston Crusaders Drum & Bugle Corps 2002-2007
Blue Stars Drum & Bugle Corps 2008-2009
Cape Fear High School
Forza East Independent Percussion (PIO)
Carolina Thunder Percussion Ensemble (PIW)
Boiling Springs High School
West Carteret High School
J.F. Byrnes High School
University of South Florida Marching Band & Indoor Percussion
Western Carolina University "Pride of the Mountains"
Courtlon Cochran, Visual Tech
Courtlon Cochran, a musician out of Miami, Fl. is well known for his contribution to the education of performance for a multitude of music programs around South Florida. Courtlon is a Featured Trumpet Player and Percussionist in the Tony and Emmy Award winning Broadway Show Blast. He has toured different countries such as Japan, South Korea, and the US and Haiti. Courtlon marched for the Boston Crusaders between 1999-2002. He is also known in the performance scene in The Magic City for playing with The Legendary Funk Band of Miami, Majesty, Apache Dragon, and Gabel. Mr. Cochran wears many hats in the performing arts as he has been Ensemble Director, Tenor Instructor, and Visual Instructor for WGI 2014 IA Finalist Velocity Indoor Percussion and Visual Caption Head for FIU Indoor Winds.
Zack Crissman, Visual Tech
Zack Crissman is excited to join the Troopers for the 2016 season as a member of the visual staff. Zack marched with the Blue Stars Drum and Bugle Corps from 2008 to 2013. He was the drum major in 2012 and 2013 seasons. Zack worked with the West Johnston High School Marching Band in Benson, North Carolina for the 2011-2012 and 2012-2013 seasons as well as ForzaEast Indepent Percussion in Greenville, NC. In 2014 he joined the staff of the West Carteret High School Marching Band in Morehead City, NC. Zack has served as the drum major judge at the Crystal Coast Band Classic in Havelock, NC, the Pirate Cove Classic at Porter Ridge High School in Indian Trail, NC, and as the drum major and visual analysis judge at the West Johnston Invitational Competition in Benson, NC. Zack was a member of the visual and brass staffs with the Blue Stars Drum and Bugle corps for the 2014 and 2015 seasons. He is currently a consultant with the Hickory High School Marching Band in Chesapeake, VA and the drill designer at Southwest High School in Onslow County, NC.
Zack graduated from East Carolina University with a bachelor’s degree in music education in 2014. He then served as the interim band director at Rocky Mount Middle School in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. Zack is currently teaching 5th grade science and 5th grade general music at KIPP Academy West in Houston, Texas as a founding member of the instructional team. He is also completing a master’s degree in teaching through Relay Graduate School of Education.
Will Wells, Visual Tech
Will Wells is a full-time marching arts designer and clinician from Columbus, Ohio, and currently serves as the assistant band director at Hilliard Davidson High School in Hilliard, Ohio. He has worked with numerous high school programs around the country, including the Centerville Jazz Band from Centerville, Ohio, and the Blue Springs Golden Regiment, from Blue Springs, Missouri.
Will studied music performance and education at The University of Akron in addition to earning a B.S. in Journalism from Kent State University and an M.Ed from The Ohio State University. In addition to teaching, he has also arranged music, written percussion and designed drill for programs in Ohio, Texas, Oklahoma, North Carolina, Virginia, New Mexico and Tennessee, as well as arranging for the Lithuanian professional basketball team, BC Lietkabelis. He has also judged for the Kentucky Music Educators Association, the Mississippi Bandmasters Association and the North Carolina Bandmasters Associations. From 2012 to 2015, he served on the visual staff of the Blue Stars.
His performance experience includes five seasons with the Bluecoats Drum & Bugle Corps (2000-2003, 2005) on tuba and lead baritone. During his time with the corps, he served as tuba section leader and was a soloist on both instruments. Outside of the marching realm, Will has performed with the Billboard-charting band Company of Thieves on trombone, and can be heard on their live music video for the song "Talulah." He has also been an active live and studio drummer for numerous hip-hop and jazz outfits around Columbus.
James Lazaro, Visual Tech
"James is excited to be a part of the 2016 Troopers’ instructional staff. He has always had a sense of appreciation for the The Troopers, and a soft spot for all the old corps. He truly believes in the potential that Troopers possesses, and looks forward to having what looks to being a potentially successful Troopers’ 2016 season. His previous DCI teaching experience comes from working with groups such as the Academy, the Crossmen, the Boston Crusaders and Teal Sound. He was responsible for the development of those programs’ movement technique programs, while maintaining their marching technique program. In addition to working with such groups in the DCI circuit, he has WGI experience; working with Braddock Independent World, FIU Winter Guard, and Reef Percussion. James has performed with the Boston Crusaders and the Phantom Regiment, as well with, Braddock Independent Winter Guard. He is very excited about Troopers, and the 2016 DCI season. "
Jeffrey Stracke, Visual Tech
Jeffrey is excited to come back to the Troopers Drum and Bugle Corps for his fourth consecutive year. He currently lives in Jenison, MI. He attended both Central Michigan University and Grand Valley State University; where he majored in Trumpet Performance and Music Education Degree.
Jeffrey has many years of experience in both the marching band and drum corps field. He started his drum corps career in 2007. He was with The Phantom Regiment. He had the honor and pleasure to be a part of the 2007, 2008 and 2010 horn line. He played the trumpet for the three years he marched with them.
It is because of this enjoyment and passion that Jeffrey has sought out opportunities of involvement for others to experience this same pleasure. His times with The Troopers, Phantom Regiment and a number of other experiences have brought about opportunities to teach at numerous different high schools in the West Michigan area.
Jeffrey truly enjoys being part of the Troopers Visual Staff, and is excited to see where things go this year.
Troopers Guard Designer and Color Guard Manager Announced
Adam Dalton, Guard Designer
Adam is currently the Director of Athletic Bands for Marshall University where he oversees the Marching Thunder and basketball pep bands. He also conducts the Marshall Symphonic Band and serves as the recruitment director for the music department.
Dr. Dalton is a native of Virginia where he attended James Madison University and earned a Bachelor of Music in Music Education. After graduating, he moved to Atlanta, GA where he taught high school at Milton High School, a large 5A program in Georgia. He then accepted a Graduate Teaching Assistantship at The University of Alabama where he received his Master of Arts in Music Education and a Doctor of Musical Arts in Instrumental Conducting.
Dr. Dalton performed with The Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps for three years earning two world championships and a gold medal in individual and ensemble. He also marched in various independent winter guards in the southeast, consistently making finals at Winter Guard International. His designing and teaching experience includes the 2008 World Champion Phantom Regiment, The Carolina Crown Drum and Bugle Corps, and Madison Scouts Drum and Bugle Corps. He is currently a designer for The Troopers Drum and Bugle Corps. He is featured on the WGI video, Toss and served as a clinician and performer for the first ever Spinfest Clinic, an annual educational event sponsored by WGI. Dr. Dalton maintains a busy schedule as a designer, consultant, and adjudicator for marching bands and indoor groups both nationally and internationally.
Dr. Dalton worked with every ensemble while at The University of Alabama and was a featured conductor for the 2013 All-State Festival performance with The Alabama Wind Ensemble. His high school band received superior ratings at Large Group Performance Evaluation. As a percussionist, Dr. Dalton performed with the Alabama Wind Ensemble for four years including their 10 day tour of Italy in 2012. He is a founding member of the Alabama Winds, a community band based in Birmingham, AL. He has also participated in the Alabama Wind Ensemble recording project The Glass Bead, available on Albany Records.
Dr. Dalton’s professional affiliations include the Collegiate Band Director’s National Conference where he serves as state chair, the National Association for Music Education, the Collegiate Music Society, and the National Band Association where he also serves as the state chair.
He currently lives in Huntington, WV with his husband and their two dogs.
"I have watched Adam work with the color guards at both Crown and the Madison Scouts ... he is one of the best. He is professional, and demonstrates a strong ability to communicate with kids. Adam is a musician who has the skills to translate music into visual effect through the work and movement of a color guard. The blend of these 2 skill sets helps move the Troopers color guard to another level. We are fortunate to have Adam a part of our design team."said Donnie VanDoren Program & Staff Coordinator.
Nick Bledsoe, Color Guard Manager
Nick comes to us from the Mid-West with an extensive teaching career of 11 years now. Nick has been involved with the sport of the arts for over 20. He began watching drum corps and marching band in the early 90’s gaining exposure from Western High School in Russiaville, IN. (13 State Titles, Multiple State and National Finalists). He started off as a brass player and during high school participated in the guard and the horn line. Following his high school career he went on to perform with outstanding organizations including the Madison Scouts Drum and Bugle Corps and Zydeco Winter guard.
During his teaching career he has worked with multiple state and national finalists groups and drum corps including Western High School, Lewis Cass, Cascades Drum and Bugle Corps, North Augusta High School, Maconaquah High School just to name a few. He currently resides in Indianapolis where he serves as the Director of Color Guards at Pike High School.
"Nick is a great young talent who knows how to dot his i's and cross his t's ... his attention to detail will serve the Troopers well in refining the performance qualities of the color guard."said Donnie VanDoren Program & Staff Coordinator.
“We searched high and low for a great partnership and perfect fit for team Troop. We found it in Adam and Nick. Thrilled and excited to work with these two dedicated and talented gentlemen. The future is indeed bright" said Michael Raiford Visual Coordinator.
Welcome Back Gabe!
“We are very happy to have Gabe back as Drum Major for his second of four years. He did a great job in leading the Corps in his first year and I expect nothing but great things from him in this season and years to come”, said Troopers Corps Director Fred Morris.
"It is an honor to be asked back as drum major for the 2016 season. I cannot wait to help lead this drum corps to new heights! It will be great to build off of the momentum we had last year. With all of our staff additions and moving our camps to Texas, this is definitely not a season to miss. If you have ever been interested in drum corps, or are looking for a new experience with great members and an unbelievable staff, come audition for the Troopers! This is your chance to join the long blue line and be apart of something incredible! ", said Troopers Drum Major Gabe Gallegos.
Troopers announce Visual Coordinator
Michael B. Raiford is a freelance theater and pageantry designer based in Austin, Texas. He has designed, staged and choreographed in DCI, BOA and WGI for more than 30 years. He is very fortunate to have had a project in either a national or regional finals for 29 years running, including more than 22 appearances in a national finals and eight national titles.
BOA highlights include: The Woodlands, BOA 2013 National Champion, 2011 National Finalist and Multiple Regional Champions; Union High School, 2014 National finalist; Plymouth Canton Educational Park, 2012 National Finalist; James Bowie, 7-time regional finalist and national finalist; Ayala HS, 3-time Regional Champion; Central Cabarrus High School, 10-time regional finalist and 3-time national finalist.
DCI: Michael’s early years were focused on 6-time DCI finalist Suncoast Sound. Contributions included choreographer and production designer. He began staging during his tenure, as well as turns as show and staff coordinator. He conceived the famed “Vietnam” show pioneering theatrical elements in the drum corps world. His next major project in drum corps was Magic of Orlando. For six seasons Michael worked as part of the creative team and as production designer, making four finalist appearances. More recent drum corps associations include The Cavaliers, The Academy and The Glassmen.
WGI: From 1998 to 2008, Michael worked on the creative team with Karl Lowe for 5-time world champion Fantasia. Michael worked as a creative collaborator and as the production cesigner and performance coach. Other favorite projects include Blessed Sacrament and San Jose Raiders. Michael currently works for WGI, teaching design and performance workshops for Spinfest, and Spinfest on the road.
Michael's work in band, winter guard and drum corps has led him to a career in scenic and costume design for theater, opera and dance. His work has been seen at Opera Boston; The New Victory Theatre in New York City; South Coast Repertory; GEVA Theatre; Playmakers Repertory; Actor’s Theatre of Louisvile; Ford’s Theatre in Washington, D.C.; Cleveland Playhouse; Kansas City Repertory; The Maltz Jupiter Theatre, Florida; Ballet Austin; Central City Opera; and Austin Lyric Opera.
Michael received his MFA in design from the University of Texas at Austin, where he subsequently taught for 10 years. He is a member of United Scenic Artists. For a look at some of his designs, visit Here
“We are pleased and excited to have Michael join us as Visual Coordinator and be part of our design team," said Troopers Corps Director Fred Morris. "With his knowledge and professional experience in the pageantry arts he will be a great asset to our current team.”
"Michael brings the maturity, experience, professionalism and leadership needed to drive the visual component of our program," said Troopers program coordinator Donnie VanDoren. "His quality and creativity is just what the Troopers need to move forward in today's visual activity. I couldn't be happier to have Michael serve as our Visual Coordinator, a member of our design team, and part of our design process."
Administrative Staff Addition
Graham Deckard is a Troopers alumnus from Kansas City, Missouri. He is currently a student at Missouri Western State University, in St. Joseph, Missouri. In May of 2018, he plans to graduate with a Bachelors of Music Education. While attending college, he has seen employment from various Kansas City area schools as a percussion instructor. Currently, he is the front ensemble instructor at Raymore-Peculiar High School.
Graham’s time with the Troopers began in the 2013 season, when he became a vibraphone player in the front ensemble. He returned for the following two seasons to continue playing in the pit, through his age out year in 2015.
He is excited to return this year, yet again, and continue his involvement with the Troopers Drum & Bugle Corps. As a new member of the administrative team, Graham looks forward to another year of service to the Troopers and the Long Blue Line.
Troopers Holiday Carousel Craft Fair
On Saturday, November 21st, TROOPERS BINGO (1801 East E Street) will be hosting the Annual Holiday CAROUSEL CRAFT FAIR! A limited number of vendor spaces (10’ x 10’ approximate) are available for only $80 each (table, chairs, electricity, and Wi-Fi all provided at no additional fee). The Carousel Craft Fair will be open to the public for a $3 admission from 9:00AM to 4:00PM. Set-up will be on Saturday, November 21st from 6-9AM and tear down will immediately follow. Volunteers will be on-site to assist vendors throughout the process. Amble parking and easy traffic flow make this a premier vendor opportunity and ideal public event. Reservations can be made by contacting Kristy at the Troopers Office at (307) 472-2141. (Only one representative per commercial product will be allowed. The deadline for vendor registration is October 30, 2015.)
Class of 2015 Hall of Fame
The Troopers will be holding the 2015 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony at the Drums Along the Rockies: Casper Edition show on July 10th at Natrona County High School in Casper, Wyoming. Please join us as we honor these men & women who have shown us Honor, Loyalty, and Dedication through years of selfless volunteer service.
The following individuals will be
inducted into the Troopers Hall of Fame:
Mike Ottoes: Mike is currently the Executive Director of the Troopers. Since beginning as a marching member in 1988, Mike has devoted himself to the Troopers—twice coming in to build the corps and return it to its competitive success and stability. Mike gives of himself every day to maintain the Corps and build on its mission to educate young people and teach them skills that will last a lifetime. Mike embodies the Corps’ motto: Honor, Loyalty, Dedication.
Fred Morris: In his ninth year with the Corps as Director, Fred’s relentless commitment to excellence is evident in the Corps' performances and their reputation as a Corps that embodies class, discipline and a dedication to its members. Fred has earned his place in the history of the Troopers through his sacrifice and dedication. We are grateful to him and welcome him into the Trooper family.
Jim McIntyre: From 1967 to 1971, Jim was the Drum Major of the Troopers. Jim led the Corps through one of its most successful competitive periods, and set the standard by which future Trooper Drum Majors – and members – are measured. After aging out, Jim continued to support the Corps, serving on its Board and as an advisor to the Executive Director. If anyone created the mold, it was Jim.
Sterling & Debra Bock: Honor, Loyalty and Dedication, Three words with profound meaning, found no truer than in the dedicated and committed husband and wife volunteer team of Debra and Sterling Bock.
Milly Emmons: The direct impact of Ma Emmons' efforts may be recorded in the Corps archives, but the memories of what she meant to so many of us will live in our hearts forever. Milly was the mother of five Troopers, opened her home to out-of-state members, sewed flags, served as a nurse and a friend on tour, and sacrificed of her time to build young people who wore the Trooper uniform. Milly was kind, warm and giving, and she was inspirational. There are few in our history who gave more or meant more to the Troopers and our members than Milly.
Hall of Fame Nominations 2015
The Trooper Hall of Fame Committee will be accepting nominations for the 2015 class from May 1, 2015 through June 1st, 2015.
The Committee, consisting of the last class of inductees, including Ruth Anne Atnip, Tony Monterastelli, the Jim Jones Family, John Masterson and Ted and Traute Gilbert, will review the nominations, and announce the 2015 class at the Casper Drums Along the Rockies show on July 10th, 2015.
Nominations will be received from any Trooper Alumni, member or supporter. To be eligible for consideration, the nominee must have provided at least 3 years of service to the corps in some capacity. Marching members must have marched at least 3 years and must have Aged Out at least 5 years ago.
Nominating is simple. Send a letter to the Troopers’ office at 1801 East E Street, Casper WY 82601, be sure to write on the envelope: ”Confidential-Hall of Fame Nomination.” or an e-mail nomination to troopershof@gmail.com. The nominations will be confidential and will only be seen by the Committee and select Administrative Corps’ staff. The letter should include the years the person was involved in the Troopers, what role they played with the Corps, and why you are nominating this individual. In addition there must be at least 2 independent letters from other individuals supporting the nomination.
We look forward to receiving your nominations, and encourage you to get them to us as soon as possible.
In Memory of Mick McMurry
Today is filled with heartfelt sadness. A true gentleman, visionary, and pillar of the community, the loss of Mick McMurry will be felt by everyone. Mick was not only a friend and supporter of the Troopers, he was an individual who found potential in everything he touched and made us all stronger through his association and conviction. Our love and support go out to Susie and the McMurry Family during this difficult time. We are Blessed by having had Mick in our lives and will strive to maintain his values as we continue Paying it Forward for all future generations. He represented that which we hold most dear . . . Honor, Loyalty, & Dedication.
The Troopers Are Coming!
The elevation of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is 617 feet. The elevation of Cheyenne, Wyoming, is 6,062 feet.
This fact became evident to Kobina Sampson-Davis during brass rehearsal at the Troopers pre-season camp Feb. 13-15, in Cheyenne.
“About halfway through the run, there was this feeling in your muscles, like when you don’t have the oxygen that you’re supposed to,” said the 19-year old lead trumpet from Milwaukee, who is in his first season with the Troopers.
Sampson-Davis and the rest of the Troopers brass had been pushing most of the oxygen available in Wyoming’s thin air through their horns, to the delight of Troopers brass arranger, Robert W. Smith.
“There are more notes in ‘Open Spaces’ than in the last two years combined,” Smith joked about the Troopers’ 2015 opener. “They’re handling it very well.”
The corps posted a short snippet of the opener on its Facebook page, which Drum Corps International promptly posted to their own Facebook timeline, drawing reactions like “Wow! Sounding good already,” “Blew out my eardrums,” and “Holy crap, I should have auditioned.”
The brass and percussion spots are mostly filled, but the Troopers are always interested in meeting motivated, qualified young people. The next camp is scheduled for March 13-15 in Mesquite, Texas. Visit the auditions page for details.
The Troopers’ 2015 production, “Wild Horses,” contains the most challenging, sophisticated music writing in the corps’ 58-year history, Smith said. He said the same thing in 2014, too, but then, the corps has been carefully ratcheting up the demand -- and reward -- of its programming, year by year.
“I’m optimistic,” Smith said. “The talent level is higher than it has been in the last few years. We’re drawing a different quality of performer.”
After Saturday’s final horn ensemble rehearsal was over, a somewhat worn-out Halena King said her second Troopers camp working under the direction of Smith, brass caption head Tim Snyder and his staff was intense.
“It’s a lot of information,” the 18-year-old baritone from Akron, Ohio, said. “They're very detailed. The articulation, the dynamics -- it’s the little stuff that counts.” But King, hoping to secure a spot with the Troopers for the first time, said the hard work had been worth it.
“I love it,” she said. “I love the experience here. I like the staff. They’re very open. The vets are super nice, and they really do help you.”
Corps Director Fred Morris said the 2015 musical concept -- if not the actual selections -- was already in mind when the programming staff sat down to start planning. This time, however, he said the process started with the development of a visual concept, before the staff began to fill in the blanks with specific musical selections.
“We thought the visual program needed more attention, so that’s where we put our focus” at the start, Morris said, and the musical programming has flowed from there. The drill is well on its way to completion, he said, adding that he expects all the brass and percussion spots to be filled by the close of the March camp.
King will be there. After camp ended Sunday, she began her journey back to Ohio with a contract in hand, and a lot of practicing to do.
“It’s difficult, but fun,” she said. “I think it will be a great show.”
