Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Premier Performing Arts Education Programs
Ascend Performing Arts has been dedicated to youth development through performing arts since 1958. Our mission focuses on fostering teamwork, discipline, and self-esteem via high-caliber programs. We offer three competitive ensembles: the Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps, Blue Knights Percussion Ensemble, and Blue Knights Winds. These programs serve members aged 14-22, combining musical excellence with choreographed performance. Our alumni consistently credit the organization with life-changing skills that have propelled careers in music, education, and leadership. With decades of experience, we maintain rigorous artistic standards while prioritizing personal growth. Our ensembles have performed at prestigious events including presidential ceremonies, international festivals, and major sporting events.We emphasize accessibility through flexible programming that adapts to diverse venues and audiences. Our staff includes industry professionals committed to maintaining the highest educational and performance standards. Through structured rehearsals and competitive touring, participants develop work ethic, collaboration, and artistic mastery. Our programs operate year-round with seasonal variations in rehearsal schedules. This enduring commitment to excellence has established us as a respected leader in youth performing arts education.
Services
Drum & Bugle Corps
Percussion Ensemble
Winds Ensemble
Performance Education
Event Entertainment
Details
- Year established: 1958
Highlights and features
- We offer 65+ years of experience in youth performing arts education
- Our ensembles maintain international competitive excellence standards
- Alumni consistently achieve professional success in music and leadership
- We provide year-round programming with seasonal ensemble variations
- Our staff includes industry professionals with decades of experience
What people say
Life-changing experience
Invaluable life lessons
Taught work ethic
Enhanced self-confidence
Career development opportunities
Services
Drum & Bugle Corps
Our flagship summer program features brass and percussion performers aged 14-21. Members tour nationally while competing in Drum Corps International. The program develops musical excellence through choreographed performances combining precision and artistry. Participants gain discipline, teamwork skills, and professional performance experience.
Percussion Ensemble
This winter ensemble specializes in competitive percussion performances. Members aged 14-22 compete in Rocky Mountain Percussion Association circuits. The program focuses on technical mastery and creative expression through diverse percussion arrangements performed in indoor venues.
Winds Ensemble
Our winter winds program combines brass, woodwinds, and auxiliary performers. Competing in Independent Open Class circuits, members develop musical versatility through dynamic arrangements. The ensemble emphasizes artistic expression and collaborative performance techniques in indoor settings.
Performance Education
We provide comprehensive performing arts education through structured rehearsals and competitive preparation. Our curriculum develops technical skills alongside personal growth in leadership and discipline. Programs operate seasonally with specialized training for different ensemble types and age groups.
Event Entertainment
Our ensembles offer customized performances for events ranging from parades to corporate functions. Available year-round with adaptable repertoire selections, we provide high-energy entertainment tailored to client needs. Performances feature diverse musical styles from classical to contemporary arrangements.
People
Mark Arnold
CEO & Executive Director
With decades of experience in performing arts education, Mark leads our organization's strategic vision while maintaining direct involvement with ensemble programs. He ensures our educational mission remains central to all operations.
Gregory Kuzma
Director of Education & Entertainment
GM oversees educational programming and entertainment bookings, bringing extensive industry expertise to develop curriculum and performance opportunities that align with our educational mission.
Michelle Ciriello
Director of Project Management
Michelle coordinates program logistics and special projects, ensuring operational excellence across all ensembles while maintaining our commitment to educational quality and participant development.
Keenan Evans
Ensemble Director
As director of our percussion ensemble, Keenan combines artistic vision with educational leadership to develop performers' technical skills and stage presence through competitive programming.
Abe Eng
Ensemble Director
Leading our winds ensemble, Abe focuses on musical excellence and artistic expression, guiding members through technical development and performance preparation in competitive indoor settings.
Questions
What performing arts programs do you offer?
We offer three competitive ensembles: Drum & Bugle Corps (summer), Percussion Ensemble (winter), and Winds Ensemble (winter), plus educational clinics and performance workshops.
What age groups participate in your programs?
Our ensembles serve members aged 14-22, with specific age ranges varying by program to ensure appropriate skill development and competitive placement.
How can we book a performance?
Contact our entertainment director to discuss event requirements. We provide customized performances for parades, ceremonies, corporate events, and special occasions year-round.
Do you offer educational workshops?
Yes, we provide educational clinics and workshops through our BKXperience program, focusing on musical technique, performance skills, and ensemble collaboration.
What performance styles do you specialize in?
Our ensembles perform diverse repertoire spanning classical to contemporary styles, with specialized focus in marching arts, percussion, and winds arrangements.
How are performers selected for ensembles?
Annual auditions evaluate musical proficiency, technical skill, and potential for growth. Programs emphasize development alongside current performance ability.
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