Mike has experienced first-hand the highest level of drum corps percussion performance in both DCI and DCA. First in top 6 DCI as a member of the 1998 Crossmen, he answered a call and played 'next to center' in the 2000 Blue Knights, 3 rd place percussion finish. He then answered a call to play with the 2002 Syracuse Brigadiers, a group that won all captions and their 4th consecutive title. He counts among his mentors DCI Hall of Famers Thom Hannum and Ralph Hardimon, playing for such figures as Nick Angelis, Colin McNutt, Jason Parent, Martin Hotte and Micah Brusse. Individual playing experience, while still in high school, included Virginia All-State Band, Northern Virginia Senior Regional Orchestra and 10 th place at the 2000 DCI Snare Individuals.
As an instructor his experience has encompassed high school to college drumlines. He most recently served as the drumline instructor for the University at Buffalo, getting that program off the ground. He was percussion caption head for T homas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology in Alexandria, VA – producing consecutive top 3 finishes in AIA 'Open Class', participating in VBODA, USSBA and WGI. He has also served as an instructor for Northmont High School in Dayton, OH, then a BOA finalist. A Vic Firth Education Team Member (MPS/SEP) since 2003, he has served as a clinician for the United States Naval Academy and schools in Colorado, Virginia and western New York.
Mike is a graduate cum laude of the University at Buffalo with a B.A. in Philosophy and a history minor.
Proud of his friendships with many leading instructors of today's top drum corps and indoor programs, Mike is pleased to remain involved with the activity and offer the Sound drumline an approach which blends diverse schools of drumming with fresh seasonings. Do drum corps, savor the flavor, and see if you aren't changed.
