2025 STRYKE Auditions

The 2025 STRYKE Auditions are set!

After a strong 2024 season, STRYKE Percussion is ready to carry their momentum into 2025. STRYKE Wynds, having secured back-to-back championships at the WGI World Class Championships, are determined to defend their title once again in 2025.

Join the STRYKE Family

By auditioning for STRYKE, you're taking the first step to becoming part of a community that values growth, unity, and excellence. You're not just auditioning for an ensemble; you're auditioning to be a member of our STRYKE family.

STRYKE Wynds Auditions:

October 6th & 20th, 2024

STRYKE Percussion Auditions:

September 15th & 29, 2024

Hialeah Gardens High School

West Broward High School

STRYKE Wynds 2024 Production

Stryke Wynds presents their 2024 Production: "Prisoners of Time". In the grand tapestry of human existence, time reigns supreme as a construct meticulously woven by society. Yet, beneath its seemingly omnipotent grasp lies a profound realization — we have become prisoners of time.

"Prisoners of Time" challenges this notion, urging us to break free from its shackles. Through raw emotion and powerful expression, the show becomes a metaphor for breaking norms and barriers. Join us as we embrace our freedom from the constraints of time in this captivating journey of liberation.

Meet the 2024 Staff and the 2024 Members

2024 Performance Schedule

You can see ‘Prisoners of Time’ at the following performances

• 2/03/24: FFCC Premiere at Seminole Ridge HS

• 2/24/24: WGI Orlando Regional at Cypress Creek HS

• 3/09/24: FFCC at Flanagan HS

• TBD: Family and Friends Night

• 4/14/24: FFCC Championships at Ocean Center (Daytona, FL)

• 4/18/24: WGI World Championships at UD Arena (Dayton, OH)

STRYKE Percussion 2024 Production

“The weight of the world is heavy on my shoulders. I am both architect and witness of Humanity standing at the face of Extinction. The clock ticks closer to midnight.”

STRYKE Percussion presents ‘7 Minutes to Midnight’. Inspired by the symbolic Doomsday Clock, their 2024 production explores the fragility of humanity, the rise of power, and the enduring hope that persists in the face of impending catastrophe, narrated through the eyes of the ‘clock's creator.’

With the permission of the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, STRYKE Percussion 2024 production pays homage to the historical significance of the Doomsday Clock, set at 7 minutes to midnight when first introduced in 1947. For a deeper understanding of the Doomsday Clock and its significance, we encourage everyone to explore the current materials available at the Bulletin’s website: https://thebulletin.org/doomsday-clock/ 

Meet our 2024 Staff team and our 2024 Members

2024 Performance Shedule

You can see ‘7 Minutes to Midnight’ at the following performances

• 1/27/24: SFWGA Premiere at Hialeah Gardens HS (Exhibition Performance)

• 2/03/24: FFCC Premiere at Seminole Ridge HS

• 2/17/24: FFCC at Martin County HS

• 2/24/24: WGI Orlando Regional at Cypress Creek HS

• 3/09/24: FFCC/SFWGA at Flanagan HS

• TBD: Family and Friends Night

• 4/14/24: FFCC Championships at Ocean Center (Daytona, FL)

• 4/18/24: WGI World Championships at UD Arena (Dayton, OH)

Meet the 2022 Front Ensemble Staff of STRYKE Percussion World (PIW)

Jack Mizutani currently resides in Miami Beach, FL where he serves as the Sr. Director of Special Events for the New World Symphony.

In addition to his commitment to the symphony, Mr. Mizutani currently serves as the Sr. Development Consultant for BD Performing Arts (2020-Present) and part of the instructional staff for the Blue Devils Front Ensemble in Concord, CA (2006 - present) and Soka Renaissance Vanguard in Tokyo, Japan (2006 - present). 

Other past teaching experiences include, Director of Percussion for Woodbridge High School in Irvine, CA (2000-2012 ) and Front Ensemble Caption Head for Fountain Valley High School in Fountain Valley, CA (2010-2012). His marching percussion experience include: 2002 Blue Devils, 2002 RCC and 2003 & 2004 Santa Clara Vanguard. 

When not immersed in music, Mr. Mizutani enjoys staying active, reading, eating with friends, hiking, visiting his hometown of Los Angeles, CA and traveling.

Percussionist Justin Sun is an active performer and educator in San Francisco. He currently teaches in the Pre-College at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music and with the Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps. A native of Chino Hills, California, Justin received his Bachelor Degree in Percussion Performance from California State University, Long Beach, and his Master Degree in Percussion Performance from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.

Christina Cheon is an active musician and educator based in Orange County, CA. Christina has performed as a touring artist throughout the United States and Europe, along with being invited to perform in festivals such as the 2013 Zeltsman Marimba Festival, the 2018 Lansum International Music Festival, and the 2018 Trinidad Bay Arts and Music Festival in Northern California. As an educator, Christina has presented numerous master classes and appeared as a guest lecturer for Chapman University, San Jose State University, and the U Music Education Foundation.

Christina’s advocacy for serving underprivileged students led to creating Southern California Marimba (SCM), a non-profit organization that provides educational programs and serves as a major platform for artistic development. SCM has invited numerous artists over the last seven years to perform at local venues while offering free admission for students. The organization has expanded to include outreach programs, masterclasses, and the biennial International Artist Competition that will have its 2nd event online this upcoming summer.

Christina holds music degrees from Chapman University (B.M. in Percussion Performance) and the Boston Conservatory at Berklee (M.M. in Marimba Performance). She currently teaches private lessons in the area and maintains a regular performing schedule as a soloist and ensemble percussionist. She is proud to endorse Marimba One as an Educational Artist.

Carlos Martinez is an Orlando, Florida native studying Computer Science at the University of Central Florida. Carlos has taught at several High Schools throughout Florida as a Front Ensemble instructor including: 2016 & 2017 Winter Park High School, 2017 & 2018 Apopka High School, and 2019 Park Vista High School. His past percussion experience includes: 2015 & 2016 INFINITY 2 Percussion; 2017-2019 STRYKE percussion, and 2019 & 2020 Blue Devils. When not involved in music, Carlos enjoys rock climbing and playing tennis.

From Nashville, Tennessee, Teddy Audley ventured out of his southern roots to experience his first season of DCI with the Spirit of Atlanta Drum Corps. Two memorable seasons formed his balanced foundation, where he was fortunate to continue the next four seasons as a performer in the Blue Devils Drum & Bugle Corps. In addition to DCI, he expanded his mallet experience in the RCC & Music City Mystique Front Ensembles.

Discovering the rewards of curiosity, Teddy found his passion for flow. As an eager educator, he encourages percussionists to seek every arrangeable element as a chance to orchestrate music, beauty, and art.

Michael Tran is an experienced percussionist specializing in front ensemble. As an instructor, his focus is in music theory as he enjoys dissecting and analyzing music to increase comprehension. His favorite hobbies include jazz and aggressive inline skating. He has been a part of RCC indoor percussion, Pacific Crest Drum & Bugle Corps, and Blue Devils Drum & Bugle Corps between 2015-2020. He has a B.A. in Music from Cal Poly Pomona and is currently studying to receive a teaching credential in music.

Ben Seidner is a South Florida native and currently serves as the Percussion Director at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. This will be Ben’s 4th season working with the STRYKE Front Ensemble. His past marching experience includes: 2021 Colts, 2014 Cavaliers and 2011-2015 STRYKE Percussion on drumset. When not involved in music, Ben enjoys fishing and golfing.

Please join our 2021-2022 STRYKE Front Ensemble Interest Page for more information and materials concerning the 2022 process.

TBA: Electronics Staff and audition process for electronics will be announced in the coming days.

STRYKE Winterguard will be Inactive for the 2019 Season

It is unfortunate to announce that the STRYKE Winterguard will be Inactive for the 2019 Season. We want to thank everyone that has been loyal, passionate, and dedicated to this ensemble throughout the years. We hope to plan for following years to come back out. And would like to wish the very best of luck to all the Winterguards participating in SFWGA, FFCC, and WGI circuits.

Josh Bishop, the New Director of STRYKE Wynds!

Joshua Bishop, born in New Orleans, Louisiana, raised in Hollywood, Florida, served in the United States Marine Corps as a Marine Musician (Bassoon and Saxophone instrumentalist) and was also a bassoonist for the Albany Symphony Orchestra in Albany, Ga. Josh has been teaching for 12 years, starting at South Sumter High School in Bushnell, FL, and for the past 10 years, he has served as the Director of Bands at Nova High School in Davie, FL. At Nova, he was able to make a struggling program with 15 kids in it, turn into a premier small marching band and a Superior Concert Program. In 2015, Josh decided to create the Nova Winds. Performing locally on the SFWGA Circuit, The Nova Winds became the first ever SA SFWGA Winds Champion, and eventually on to become the first ever SA WGI Winds Champion with their show "Lost in Space". Nova Winds had one more season in 2016, where they were crowned SFWGA SA Winds Champions and eventually on to Dayton, Ohio where they were awarded a Bronze Medal with their show "Fallout". Josh has a deep love for the marching and moving arts, and is looking forward to his next chapter as Director of STRYKE World Winds.  

Meet the Front Ensemble Staff of STRYKE Percussion (PIW)

Danny Gutierrez is an Orlando, Florida native studying Percussion Performance at Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida. Previous marching experience includes Blue Stars Drum and Bugle Corps from La Crosse, Wisconsin and INFINITY Percussion from Orlando, Florida. Currently, Danny is the Front Ensemble Coordinator and arranger at Timber Creek High School. Additionally, Danny consults for various high school programs around the country including Adair County High School in Columbia, Kentucky and Park Vista Community High School in Lake Worth, Florida. In his free time he enjoys working out, traveling, and being a fast food connoisseur. This will be Danny’s second year serving as the Front Ensemble Coordinator for STRYKE Percussion.

Jack Mizutani currently resides in Miami Beach, FL where he serves as the Director of Development for the New World Symphony.  Aside from his commitment to the symphony, Mr. Mizutani currently serves as the Blue Devils Front Ensemble instructor, Concord, CA (2006 - present) and the Front Ensemble instructor for the Soka Renaissance Vanguard in Tokyo, Japan (2006 - present). Other past experiences include, Director of Percussion for Woodbridge High School in Irvine, CA (2000-2012 ) and Front Ensemble Caption Head for Fountain Valley High School in Fountain Valley, CA (2010-2012). His marching percussion experience include: 2002 Blue Devils, 2002 RCC and 2003 & 2004 Santa Clara Vanguard. When not immersed in music, Mr. Mizutani enjoys staying active, reading, eating with friends, visiting his hometown of Los Angeles, CA and traveling.

Drew Tucker is a musician, educator, and social entrepreneur—a unique combination of talents that place him at the intersection of the arts and activism. Artistically, he’s at the forefront of the movement to reinvent the vibraphone—a dynamic instrument that he melds with soul, funk, jazz and hip-hop influences. He has shared the stage with Shaun Martin, Mani Hoffman, Jeff Coffin, Chris Nix, Tom Hurst, Nebjsa Zikovic, Mark Ford to name a few and his jazz influenced twists on modern-day standards from Michael Jackson, to Prince and The Police, have earned him key endorsements from Mike Balter, Musser, Beetle Percussion, Lot Riot and Sabian Cymbals—and the applause of sold-out audiences nationwide. As a community activist, he’s driven to revitalize underserved areas through the creation of arts centers in underserved neighborhoods and was the key factor in the development of Arts Garage in Delray Beach, the Bailey & Ali Cultural Arts Center and Old School Square. Through his leadership and musicianship, he strives to not only raise spirits, but set an example of excellence and open opportunities for students, families and communities to realize their potential. Drew is currently touring solo and with his band The New Standard, is a front ensemble consultant and technician for Stryke World and Blue Stars Drum & Bugle Corps and the percussion director at Boca Raton High School.

Alexander Moran is a musician, performer and audio engineer who has expanded his love and passion of music and marching arts to both the field and floor. He is a graduate from Full Sail University with a Bachelor in Recording Arts and a Completer from New York University Steinhart in Music Technology. From a very young age he was marching and performing in both competitive field and parade bands in New York State. Starting off in woodwinds and later leading to percussion and brass from a high school to world-class level. After finding the pageantry arts Alex marched and aged out with both The Glassmen Drum and Bugle Corps and INFINITY Percussion World. Since 2012 Alex has spent his time teaching as a Visual Instructor/Coordinator, Audio Engineer/Consultant and Electronics Tech for dozens of programs in the Northeast and Florida. He currently resides in Orlando, Florida where he works and spends his free time following his hobbies of motorsports and hockey. Outside of the pageantry arts Alex is the Production Supervisor for Rhino Staging Florida where his most recent and notable projects are Guns N’ Roses - Not In This Lifetime Tour, Coldplay - A Head Full of Dreams Tour, Ed Sheeran - World Tour, Wrestlemania AXXESS, SAP Sapphire, Daytona Country 500, U2 / One Republic - The Joshua Tree 2017 Tour as well as many other touring artists and corporate shows. He is excited and looking forward to another year with the STRYKE Organization coming back again as the Audio/System Engineer and Electronics Tech.

Josh Guttveg has marched Stryke for 6 years on synthesizer (2011,2013-17) and 4 years of DCI (Troopers 2013-14 as Asst. Drum Major, Carolina Crown 2015-16 as a synthesizer player) and recently served on staff at Crown as their audio engineer for the 2017 season. Having worked with many audio professionals over his marching career, Josh brings a wealth of knowledge back to Stryke to continue their exponential progression in sound design and audio and is excited to continue growing Stryke as a powerhouse ensemble in WGI.

Marisa Spevak (B.S in Psychology, Southeastern University) is a native of Yorkville, Illinois and is an alumnus of Yorkville High School. In the past eight years, Marisa has participated in several world class marching ensembles. She has done six nation-wide tours with various Drum Corps International (DCI) groups: the Colts Drum and Bugle Corps (2011) from Dubuque, Iowa; the Phantom Regiment Drum and Bugle Corps (2012, 2013) from Rockford, Illinois; and the 18-time world champion Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps (2014, 2015, 2016) from Concord, California. During her time with the Blue Devils, Marisa received two DCI World Championships, scoring a record breaking 99.65 in her first year. She also received first place in the System Blue Performers Showcase international marimba competition and received the Fred Sanford award for best percussion. Additionally, Marisa has participated in Winter Guard International (WGI) with Pioneer Indoor from Romeoville, Illinois (2010, 2011) and Infinity Percussion from Orlando, Florida (2015). Marisa recently became an alumnus of Southeastern University where she obtained her degree in psychology, played snare drum in the schools “Fireline” and studied music with well-known percussionist and composer, Brian Blume. Marisa plans to pursue her doctorate in psychology while continuing to serve as percussion instructor at various high schools and WGI ensembles in central Florida.

Chris Vosburgh first started his independent marching career with STRYKE Percussion back in 2013, during the 2016 and 2017 season he was the front ensemble section leader. He also marched with the Madison Scouts Drum and Bugle Corps in 2015. Chris has taught at 8 different schools around the South Florida area, 2 of which have gone on to making BOA regional finals.

Moose Davis, a native of Arkansas, is an avid performer and educator within the concert and marching worlds.  His performances have taken him across the United States as well as Europe.  Presently he is an Instructor of Percussion and the Front Ensemble Instructor at Broken Arrow High School in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Along with him teaching at Broken Arrow, he is currently on the instructional staff with the Blue Stars Drum and Bugle Corps based out of La Crosse, Wisconsin.  His marching experience includes Spirit of Atlanta (2010), Phantom Regiment (2011-2012), and The Blue Devils (2013-2014).  Recently he has completed his Master’s Degree in Percussion Performance studying under the guidance of Professor Gwendolyn Dease and Dr. Jon Weber.  Preceding his studies at Michigan State University, he has also completed a Graduate Performance Certificate and his Bachelor’s Degree both in Percussion Performance whilst studying with Dr. Blake Tyson at the University of Central Arkansas.

STRYKE Entertainment at Marlins Opening Night

​​​​​​​ Video courtesy from Miami Marlins

On Tuesday April 11th, 2017, Major Leage Baseball returned to Miami. The Miami Marlins held their first home game of the season and STRYKE Entertainment took part in the action. Our entertainment drumline welcomed Marlin fans and got the party started, parading around Marlins Park for an exciting game against the Atlanta Braves. STRYKE Entertainment would like to thank the Marlins Organization for the opportunity to partner with them at their 2017 Opening Night.

If you're interested in booking STRYKE Entertainment for your next event, or would like to learn more, please click here for more information.

In Review: #GivingTuesday

We are proud to announce that this #GivingTuesday we surpassed last year’s donations by over a thousand dollars! STRYKE is truly thankful for all the donations and thoughts given to our non-profit organization. With the money donated to us we will be able to expand and grow as an organization as we have already done in the last few years. Now that #GivingTuesday has passed, there are still more ways to help and support STRYKE! Whether you would like to help volunteer for events at STRYKE, donate to our cause, or partner with us – you, the people that support STRYKE, are the reason why we can keep going as a strong organization. 

Our next special event is Jingle Jam, a STRYKE celebration!  This will be a special evening where all four STRYKE ensembles come together to celebrate the holidays with Friends and Family. 

Jingle Jam will be a beneficial concert, and all proceeds will be a donation to our cause as a non-profit organization! Tickets will be $10 for adults, $5 for students, and children 10 and under are free. Join us this year at our first Jingle Jam and come out to have some holiday fun!

What is #GivingTuesday?

From the time your Thanksgiving feast ends, the span of days consisting of Black Friday and Cyber Monday seem to take over. Instantly your time is focused on splurging, spending, and shopping. Instead of the hundreds or thousands of dollars spent on the hottest deals and newest products to hit the market this season, imagine that money being given to a greater cause.

What if we told you that there was a specific day dedicated to this?

Four weeks from now, it will be Giving Tuesday. This day follows just after Cyber Monday and exists to encourage and amplify small acts of kindness. #GivingTuesday holds the potential to show real change in communities and for organizations through social media. The best part is, you don’t have to be a billionaire or world leader to give back. #GivingTuesday is about ordinary people coming together to do extraordinary things.

This Fall, STRYKE is participating in #GivingTuesday again and we want to invite you to join us in giving to the community this holiday season. To learn more about Giving Tuesday, visit www.givingtuesday.org!

Meet the 2017 STRYKE Winterguard Staff

STRYKE is pleased to announce our 2017 Winterguard Staff. In addition to our Staff announcement, we are also excited to announce the Winterguard will be performing in WGI Open Class Competition this season!

Register today, and join us this Sunday (October 2nd) for our 2nd Audition/Clinic. A great opportunity for ALL ages and skill levels, whether you're auditioning for a position or just wanting to learn something new, the STRYKE Audition/Clinic has something for everyone. 

Co-Director: Nicole Darby Ramirez

Nicole Darby Ramirez began her color guard career as a four-year member of the Cooper City High School Color Guard. In two of the years spent with Cooper City, Nicole performed in WGI finals in both scholastic A and Open class. Nicole then marched with the Colts Drum and Bugle Corps in 1997 where she was a DCI finalist. She then went off to march with the Alliance of Miami in (2000-2001) where she was a WGI World Class finalist for both years. Nicole later marched with the Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps in 2002 where she received a bronze medal and finally, she marched with Braddock Independent in 2003 where she received a silver medal in Independent Open Class. 

Nicole was the Color Guard Director of Wellington High School from 1999-2002, and worked with many local programs such as Lake Worth High School, Palm Beach Gardens High School, Dwyer High School, and Royal Palm Beach High School. Nichole taught at Cypress Bay High School from 2002-2007and has been teaching at Park Vista High School since 2008. Nicole became the Director of the Park Vista Color Guard in 2012- present. This will be her second year returning as Co-Director of the STRYKE Winterguard. Aside of her job as a color guard director Nicole works as a registered nurse in labor and delivery and is a proud mommy of two beautiful babies.

Co-Director: Paul Sauberer

Paul Sauberer is a veteran of the pageantry arts activity, and has been involved in the marching band and color guard scene for over 10 years. He has been an integral component in the success of many band programs. Designing flags, costumes, props, winter guard and percussion floors, soundtracks – anything you can think of. Paul is currently on the color guard staff and design team of 2014 Class 5A State Champions, and BOA Super Regional Finalist Park Vista High School in Lake Worth, Florida. Paul has designed and taught for programs such as Park Vista HS (Lake Worth, FL), Jupiter HS (Jupiter, FL), Castle HS (Newburgh, IN), East View HS (Apple Valley, MN) and many other programs around the country. Paul is actively involved in the South Florida Winter Guard Association circuit, along with WGI. With his experience in flag, costume, and set design, he elevates the visual and emotional aspect of each show he is a part of, breaking down the wall between performing members and the audience. Paul’s creative mind and his expertise in capturing those special “moments” make him a vital part of any program. This will be Paul’s second year serving as Co-Director of the STRYKE Winterguard.

Admin Director: Michelle Hance

Michelle Hance has been an active member of color guard world since 2001. She began her career spinning with the Logger’s Run Middle School Color Guard. Michelle then spent all four years of her high school career spinning with the Park Vista Color Guard where she served as Captain her junior and senior year. After graduating Michelle went on to march with MEDEA Independent (2009-2010) and with the Teal Sound Drum and Bugle Corps (2009) where she was a DCI Open Class Finalist, which helped the Drum Corps transition into World Class.

After graduating High School, Michelle was hired on as a color guard tech at Park Vista High School (2008-2009) She then moved up to the Treasure Coast after meeting the love of her life where she took the Color Guard Director position at South Fork High School (2010-2016). Michelle is currently the Color Guard Director at Jensen Beach High School in Jensen Beach, Florida (2011-Current).

Michelle is currently working towards a B.S. in Middle Grades Science Education and is expected to graduate in May of 2017. She is happily married to the love of her life Cisco Hance and has two amazing kids. 

Artistic Designer / Choreographer: Matt Winans

Matthew Winans attended the State University of New York (SUNY) at Brockport in Rochester, NY where he earned two bachelor degrees in Communications and Dance. In 2005 he relocated to Florida to become part of the instructional staff for the Flanagan High School Color Guards. He soon after became a member of the schools faculty as a Social Science teacher.

Matt’s experience in the color guard activity goes beyond his age as his mother, Clara Lake, has been involved in the activity for many years in Medina, NY through marching, teaching, and in the judging community. Matt was a member of the Medina High School Winterguard and Marching Band for 7 consecutive years and recently returned to the program as a choreographer and consultant. Matt also is the Color Guard Caption Head and Designer for the Boston Crusaders Drum Corps (2008 – Current) and returned as the Color Guard Designer for the Empire Statesmen Sr. Drum Corps. (2002-2004 & Current)

Other performing experiences include: many of the SUNY Brockport dance concerts, the Rochester Patriots Independent World Guard, and the Cadets Drum Corps. He has also taught and continues to teach many groups on the east coasting including; Orchard Park HS, Stoneman Douglas HS, Victor HS, The Cadets Drum Corps (2005-2007), Western HS (2007-2008), Eastridge HS (Director 2002-2005), East Syracuse Minoa HS (2002-2004), and Phoenix HS Color Guards.

Color Guard Technician / Choreographer: Jason Ciesla

Jason Alexander is an active choreographer and designer in the pageantry arts. Jason has been involved since early 2006 in Orlando, FL where he worked with numerous programs including Lake Howell High School and Winter Park High School. Jason has also taught at Park Vista High School for the last four years, writing choreography for the color guard and marching band. (2013-2016)

Jason’s drum corps experience includes being a performing member of the Boston Crusaders (2007) and Carolina Crown (2008-2009). After Aging out with Carolina Crown in 2009 with a silver medal, Jason taught with the Boston Crusaders Drum and Bugle Corps (2010-2012) and the Santa Clara Vanguard Drum and Bugle Corps (2013-present).

 Jason has also spent many years performing in several winter guard programs such as, The Knights World, Northeast Independent, and Braddock Independent World. Jason also performed in Taiwan last December with the Santa Clara Vanguard during their international tour.

Jason is currently teaching at West Broward High School, while perusing a career in Diagnostic Medical Sonography and Broward College. Jason started with us last year for the inaugural year of STRYKE Winterguard and is excited to continue with us again this season. 

 

Color Guard Technician / Choreographer: Alex Perez

Alexander Perez has been involved in the Marching Arts for over 18 years. At age 16, he joined the Boston Crusaders drum and bugle corps as a member of the Contra line . He was also a member of Carolina Crown drum and bugle corps where he was part of the Color Guard, and later returned to Boston to age out of the Color Guard in 2004. After aging out , he then joined the creative and instructional teams of the Magic of Orlando drum and bugle corps, Santa Clara Vanguard, has spent the last 7 years with The Cadets and has currently rejoined the Santa Clara Vanguard drum and bugle corps.

In addition to his extensive experience in the drum corps activity , Alexander has had a successful career in the Winter Guard arena. Starting as a Performing Member with Braddock Independent winter guards for 8 years and teaching to this current day. Designing for such groups as Cypress Bay High School FL, Summerville High school SC, Somerset High School FL, West Johnson High School NC, Miami Coral Park High School FL, St. Joseph High School Malaysia, Braddock Independent Winter Guard FL, Black Gold Winter Guard TX, Salem Blue Winter Guard MA, Stoneman Douglas High School Winter Guard FL. And the West Broward World Guard

Alexander has had some amazing opportunities due to his involvement in the Marching Arts. He was a performing member for the Micro Magic Japan touring cast in 2001 and was the lead designer for the St. Joseph High School Marching Band from Kuching Malaysia , who was recently crowned the 2015 US Bands Yamaha Cup Grand Champion.

Color Guard Technician: Kristi Sexton

 Kristi first began her color guard career as a four-year member of the Cypress Bay color guard and was part of the 2011 team that placed 6th in scholastic A finals. She then went on to march with the Boston Crusaders Drum Corps (2010-2011) and the Braddock Independent World Guard (2012-2014) where she performed in the WGI world class finals in Dayton, Ohio all three years. Kristi decided to branch out to the west coast where she then marched with the Blue Devils Drum Corps (2013-2014). During her time with the Blue Devils she received a silver medal in 2013 and an undefeated gold medal in 2014 with the highest ever color guard Score in Drum Corps history, a perfect 20. Kristi became a member of The Blue Devils International where she toured Europe and performed in the Basel Tattoo, which is the second largest military tattoo in the world. With the Blue Devils she also traveled to Taiwan in 2015 where she performed at various venues with an elite performance ensemble. She has worked with Cypress Bay High School and is currently in her 5th year working with Park Vista High School. This will be her second year with STRYKE Winterguard. Kristi is currently in school for sonography and radiography and plans to travel with blue devils international this summer returning to Europe. 

 

Color Guard Technician: Pauleen Paygane

This is Pauleen’s 10th year instructing young adults the foundations, techniques, and art of color guard. She started teaching her freshman year of high school at the young age of 14 at Eagle’s Landing Middle School and continued her passion to teach consecutively after. Pauleen has taught at schools in West Palm Beach such as, Spanish River High School, Lake Worth High School, Olympic Heights High School, John I. Leonard High School, and currently, Park Vista High School.

Pauleen has also marched 14 winter seasons. She has had the amazing opportunity to march with astounding independent groups such as Premonition Winterguard, Carolina Crown, and Braddock Independent World. She has learned so much in her prior experiences and her passion for color guard grew through marching and teaching. Nothing is more rewarding to her than sharing her passion for guard with her students. Pauleen states, “Seeing my students perform in front of an audience and come off that floor with a smile is the best gift to ever receive.”

To Pauleen, color guard is not just a hobby it is her life. Color guard has introduced her to amazing people, which have formed into amazing friendships. It taught her responsibility, self-confidence, and created unforgettable experiences that many have never had the opportunity to experience, and with that, she is beyond grateful.

 

Color Guard Technician: Laura Gasper

Laura Gasper began spinning her freshman year in high school and has been doing color guard ever since. She has performed with Carroll High School (winning WGI her freshman year, and placing third the year after), Crown Guard, and Pride of Cincinnati (winning WGI in ’05 and medaling ’03 and ’04), and marched Drum Corps for 6 years at Carolina Crown. She has taught programs all over including Carmel High School, Zydeco Color Guard, Santa Clara Vanguard, and multiple others. She received her B.F.A. from Herron School of Art and Design with an emphasis in ceramics and she is the co-owner of L. Mercado Studios in Downtown Hollywood where she teaches art classes and promotes the arts through the gallery and studio artists. Laura has been a member of the West Broward Color Guard Staff since 2013 and looks forward to continuing to push the students with emphasis on hard work, dedication, and critical thinking.

Meet the 2017 STRYKE Wynds Staff

Program Coordinator: Jason "Paco" Nunes

Paco currently resides in Florida, where he began his drum corps career with the Magic of Orlando (2003-2004).  After finishing his performing career with The Cadets (2005-2006), he went on to continue his teaching career while building a thriving show design and drill-writing company.  In the recent past, he has worked with the Boston Crusaders Drum & Bugle Corps (2010/2012), STRYKE Percussion/Wind ensembles(2008-2016), Nease Indoor Percussion (2014-2016), as well as numerous other high school and independent groups through the fall and winter seasons.  Jason is currently the percussion visual coordinator for the 2016 DCI World Champion Bluecoats. He is also an advocate and constant participant of the WGI, BOA, SFWGA, FFCC and FMBC circuits at home and through the country. 

Jason will return to his third year with STRYKE Wynds as the program coordinator and show designer.

Music Caption Head: Christina Colletti

Ms. Christina Colletti has been a music educator for over eight years and graduated with her Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from the University of Florida.  This will be her third season with STRYKE Wynds.  This year, she is honored with the opportunity to be the STRYKE Wynds Music Caption Head.  Additionally, she is a music and visual consultant for the Park Vista High School Marching Band who have won state championships for the last two consecutive years at the Florida Marching Band Competition. Her full time position as a music educator is at Manatee Elementary where she teaches Kindergarten through fifth grade.  In the past two years her elementary chorus known as The Singing Manatees, won first place and received superior ratings at their latest competition, USA Music Festival in Universal Studios, Orlando. Her students have regularly been selected to participate in the All-State Elementary Honors Chorus and Spotlight on Young Musicians Honors Chorus for the last six consecutive years.  This past year, she was nominated by her colleagues to be the Spotlight on Young Musicians Elementary Honors chorus 24th annual conductor.  She prepared a choir of over 150 fourth and fifth grade students for their performance at the Kravis Center in May, 2016.  Additionally, she received a nomination for the prestigious Teacher of the Year award in 2013. To help less fortunate children, Ms. Colletti donates her time to teach an annual summer band camp in Saint Marc, Haiti. Here she is able to contribute by teaching master classes and is the Director of The Symphonic Band.

Ms. Colletti’s principal instrument is flute and piccolo, which she regularly plays with the South Florida Flute Orchestra and the Palm Beach State College Concert Band. She is a gifted musician who is proficient in other areas as well. She has performed in several musical activities and ensembles in which she was a vocalist or played on a wide array of instruments. These instruments include baritone/euphonium, baritone saxophone, alto saxophone, single tenor steel drum, bass steel drum, guitar, ukulele, piano, and hand drums to name a few. Her performing experience includes Jazz Band, Concert Band, Orchestra, Woman’s choral, Chorus, Steel Drum Ensemble, Flute Ensembles, chamber ensembles, The Magic drum and bugle corps, UF Gator Marching Band, and The Symphonic Band of the Palm Beaches.

Aside from studying music education in the United States, she has accumulated life experiences from around the world. She’s performed in several states along the east coast and studied music history/flute performance in Salzburg, Austria. Further travels include London England, Venice Italy , Vienna Austria, Paris France, Prague Czech Republic, Munich Germany, Guayaquil and Quito Ecuador, Dominican Republic, Saint Marc Haiti, St. Thomas Virgin Islands, Nevis West Indies, and Bahamas. Whether it was teaching music, performing, or exploring these beautiful countries, people from all around the world have professionally and culturally influenced Ms. Colletti.

Visual Caption Head: Joshua Brenneis

Joshua Brenneis returns to STRYKE Wynds for 2017 as the Visual Caption Head.  He is a visual instructor, adjudicator and designer that works with numerous musical programs across the country.  These programs are associated with Florida Marching Band Coalition, Bands of America, Winter Guard International, and Drum Corps International.  He started in DCI as a performer with the Magic of Orlando Drum and Bugle Corps in 2004.  He later joined the ten time world champion Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps from 2006-2007 where he aged out in Pasadena California.

Josh has been teaching several south Florida marching bands since 2007 that have been successful in the FMBC and BOA circuits.  He is currently the Visual Caption Head of Park Vista High School and Jupiter High School where both programs won FMBC State Championships in 2014 and 2015. In 2013, Park Vista placed 6th in their first attempt at the Bands of America Super Regional in Atlanta Georgia.  Jupiter has made FMBC State Finals every year since 2008 when Josh first took over the visual program.

Josh has continuous involvement in DCI and WGI as an instructor.  In 2011 he joined Teal Sound Drum and Bugle Corps out of Jacksonville Florida in their second season of world class competition.  In the 2012 and 2013 winter seasons he taught visual at STRYKE Percussion Ensemble as they transitioned into the world class division for WGI. He was on the visual staff of the Crossmen Drum and Bugle Corps from San Antonio Texas in 2013 and 2014, where they returned to World Class Finals for the second time in 10 seasons.  

Currently, Josh will be returning for his 3rd season on visual staff with The Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps for the 2017 season where he'll be running the technique program.

 

The Design Team

(Bio's and Pics coming soon...)

Nathan Skinner

Josh Wendt

 

The Education Team

(Bio's and Pics coming soon...)

Mike Simoes

Justin Samuels

Robbie Rivero

Nicolas Skinner

Justin Robards (Percussion/Electronics)

Matt Rusnak

Meet the Wynds Staff this Sunday (October 2nd) at the STRYKE17 Audition/Clinic!

Meet Drew Tucker, STRYKE's Director of Development.

Welcome Drew as he will be joining the STRYKE Administration Team in a new role as Director of Development.

About Drew Tucker

Drew Tucker is a musician, educator and social entrepreneur—a unique combination of talents that place him at the intersection of the arts and activism. Artistically, he’s at the forefront of the movement to reinvent the vibraphone—a dynamic instrument that he melds with soul, funk, jazz and hip-hop influences. His jazz influenced twists on modern-day standards from Michael Jackson, to Prince and The Police, have earned him key endorsements from Mike Balter, Ludwig-Musser Beetle Percussion, Lot Riot, & Sabian Cymbals—and the applause of sold- out audiences nationwide. The passion he brings to the stage is also present in his classroom. Drew’s one of the most sought after educators in mallet education, which he led to him being a top front ensemble coach in Florida. He’s proud to note that 100% of his students have gone on to succeed in art school and university auditions.

As a cultural arts activist , he’s driven to revitalize areas of Florida through the creation of arts centers in underserved neighborhoods. Through his leadership and musicianship, he strives to not only raise spirits, but set an example of excellence and open opportunities for students, families and communities to realize their potential. Whether performing alongside Grammy winners as a world-class vibraphonist, coaching eager high school students through national music competitions, or leading and directing the growth of local arts institutions, Drew's passion for improving people’s lives through artistic endeavor is unwavering.

The 2017 SPW Front Ensemble Staff

DAN GUTIERREZ - FRONT ENSEMBLE COORDINATOR

Current Percussion Performance Major at Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida

Marching Experience: Infinity Percussion 11-15, Blue Stars Drum & Bugle Corps 13

Teaching Experience: Stryke 2016 as Mallet tech, Current Front Ensemble coordinator at Timber Creek High School in Orlando, Florida.

Influences: Matt Hernandez,  Aaron Spevak, Jonathan Zuniga, Ian Grom, Mandy Quinn, Kane Hurlock, and Dan Johnson.

Paul Yorke - Mallet Tech

Current Percussion Performance Major at University of Central Florida

Marching Experience: Infinity Percussion 13-14

Teaching Experience: Viera High School (Viera, Florida), Eu Gallie (Melbourne, Fl), and Lake Minneola (Minneola, Florida)

Influences: Jeff Moore, Thad Anderson, Kirk Gay, Mandy Quinn, Dan Johnson, and Marja Kerney

Nathan Skinner - (Mallet Tech)

Marching Experience: Carolina Crown 2009, STRYKE 2012

Currently Teaching: Park Vista HS

Influence: Milt Jackson, Gary Burton, John Coltrane, Dexter Gordon and Charlie Parker.

Ryan Sanford - (Drumset Tech)

Marching Experience: Music City DBC 2013, Blue Stars DBC 2014-2015 Drumset, and Infinity Percussion 12-14

Influences: Matt Hernandez, Michael Bingham, Jonathan Zuniga, Ian Grom, Hector Prado, Mandy Quinn, and Dan Johnson.

Alex Moran (Audio/Electronics)

Education: New York University and Full Sail University

Marching Experience: Glassmen 2012’, Infinity World 2013-2014

Teaching Experience: Timber Creek High School, Winter Park High School

Over the last 9 years Alexander has worked in the audio and visual entertainment industry. Having seen the insides and outs of everything from studio sessions, live entertainment environments, corporate A/V events and concert tours. As a freelance Engineer and employee of Rhino Staging and Event Solutions Alexander has been called to work alongside some of the top artists, clients and events in the world. He has worked with everyone from local clients to Ross Lara, Paul Oakenfold, Walt Disney Creative/Entertainment, Eric Schilling and Tyfy Studios to name a few. More recent projects have been Taylor Swift 1989 World Tour, Invictus Games Orlando 2016, Daytona Country 500 2016, Rolling Stones Zip Code Tour, Brantly Gilbert Blackout Tour and Sapphire SAP.

David Karpinsk - Percussion Tech

Marching Experience: STRYKE Percussion 2003- 2005 and The Magic of Orlando DBC in 2003.

Teaching Experience STRYKE Percussion 2006 - 2012, 2014 - 2016 and has taught and written for various high schools across south Florida since 2002

Drew Tucker - Consultant

Drew Tucker is a musician, educator and social entrepreneur—a unique combination of talents that place him at the intersection of the arts and activism. He rejoined STRYKE in 2016 as a Front Ensemble Consultant. This season he will be returning to STRYKE in big role. Announcement soon to come. 

Jack Mizutani - CONSULTANT

Currently: Director of Development, Special Events for the New World Symphony (Miami, FL)..

Teaching: Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps, Director of Percussion for Woodbridge High School in Irvine, CA (2000-2012), Front Ensemble Caption Head for Fountain Valley High School in Fountain Valley, Ca (2010-2012)

Introducing Spencer Reyes, SPW's Front Ensemble Arranger

We are excited to announce Spencer Reyes will be joining the 2017 Design Team as Front Ensemble Arranger for SPW.

About Spencer

As a graduate of Chino Hills High School, Spencer continued his marching career with the 2011 Academy Drum and Bugle Corps front ensemble and later found his home with the DCI World Champion Blue Devils.  Spencer was a member from 2012 - 2013 winning and undefeated season, a Fred Sanford percussion award, and a silver medal.  Simultaneously, Spencer was a member of the Riverside Community College front ensemble from 2013 - 2014, aging out on the floor of WGI World Class finals on the close of his 10th year in the activity.  During that time, Spencer worked with world class groups such as Chino Hills High School and Ayala High School’s marching band and concert percussion.  

Since then, he has arranged and taught for several groups in Southern California with multiple WGI and Bands of America regional finalist appearances.  Spencer currently lives in Chino Hills, California and works as the Front Ensemble Coordinator and Arranger for Arroyo High School and Cypress High School.  

Meet Eddy Falcon, Show Designer and Visual Supervisor for SPW

Eddy Falcon has been involved with STRYKE since 2010 and will be returning to STRYKE for the 2017 Season. Eddy plays a pivotal role for SPW as part of our Design Team and the Visual Supervisor overseeing the visual program this season.

About Eddy

Falcon, a native of New York City began his drum corps career at the age of 11 with a local Division 2/3 corps named The Cadets of New York City. He marched four seasons with the corps before joining the DCA circuit, where he played trumpet and mellophone with The Bushwhackers (Hackensack, NJ) and later, The Syracuse Brigadiers (Syracuse, NY.) After getting a taste of the activity, Falcon went on to march with The Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps (Allentown, PA) for the 2006 and 2007 seasons.

The following year, Eddy spent time as a freelance trumpeter in NYC, gigging and playing in a few off Broadway shows throughout the city. During that time, he was casted to join the Tony and Emmy award winning show, “Blast!”. Falcon has done multiple tours with “Blast!” including a U.S. national tour and a tour of Asia. His roles included trumpet, piccolo trumpet, mellophone, flugelhorn, conducting, didgeridoo, snare drum and auxiliary percussion instruments.

When not on tour with “Blast!”, Eddy was a part of another theatrical production, ”DRUMLine LIVE”. At DRUMLine he played both brass and percussion instruments, His role also involved different styles of dancing and singing. Falcon has been involved with both “Blast!” and “DRUMline LIVE” since 2008 and has had the opportunity to tour the United States, Japan and Korea multiple times with the companies.

Falcon’s previous drum corps teaching experience includes: The Boston Crusaders visual staff (2010-2013, 2016), The Madison Scouts brass staff (2014), and The Cadets visual staff (2009 and 2015).  Falcon is an active drill writer, consultant and instructor for various groups across the country.

Drum Miami; Students helping Students

For four years now, former Cypress Bay HS student Jared Michelson and Grant Rittenberg have created and ran their own percussion program called Drum Miami. Thier goal was simple, to improve the lives of other students through the art of drumming. Since 2013, they have put together a team of students to volunteer at summer camps and help underprivileged students learn how to drum. 

Jared began this idea when he wanted to share his passion for drumming with other students that never had the opportunity he had growing up. He contacted the County Parks and Recreation Department to offer his services. He later found out that the Park and Recs Dept. never offered such a service, and this would be the first experience for many students to learn how to drum and play music. He was very excited about the opportunity, and invited his schoolmates to volunteer with him. Now, what started off with just teaching one summer camp location, has grown to teaching over 60 students at three summer camp locations.

Staff Members: Jae Xiong, Carlos Cordova, Roberto Navarro, and Jose Veliz

Founders of Drum Miami

Grant Rittenberg and Jared Michelson

Staff Member: Jacques Vardaramotos 

SP2 member, Alex Ramos, working with the students.

When STRYKE learned about Drum Miami, we wanted to help out in anyway possible. Since Drum Miami is a volunteer program with no budget to work with, we assisted them in getting drumsticks and practice pads for the students to work with at camps. We also had SP2 member, Alex Ramos, volunteer at the parks. 

This is an inspiring service powered by students for students. STRYKE looks forward to continue to work with Drum Miami in future Summer Camps in hopes to help them expand their services in the community.

We would like to thank Vic Firth Inc. in their assistance and contribution for the camps. It wouldn't be possible without Vic.

In Review: STRYKE Summer Clinic 2016

On July 16th, STRYKE had their annual Summer Clinic. Over 150 students came to participate in their Percussion, Winds, and Wintergaurd Clinics taking place that day. It was an exciting event, and we want to thank all the students who participated. 

Take a look at our Summer Clinic album to see the day's activities!

Check-in opens to begin the day

The Students are welcomed and given a breakdown of the day's schedule

Battery getting started with the 4 Strokes

Winds getting proper stretching techniques

Some of the percussion raffle winners

Grand prize winner took home a 16" Zildjian Cymbal!

Colorguard started off 'Show and Tell' with their production they created that day!

The Winds blew us away with their Corales

The Front Ensemble playing some fast notes with Gershwin arrangement

The Battery brought the Clinic to a close

We would like to thank our sponsors, Zildjian, Vic Firth, and Remo who made this clinic special for all the students that participated.  

Stay tuned for our next event, the STRYKE17 Audition/Clinic, which will start on September 18th!

Who to Watch for: DCI 2016

As the 2016 DCI Season kicks off this Thursday, we will be spotlighting some of our very own members and staff as they tour the nation with their selected Drum Corps this year. STRYKE will be represented in over ten DCI Ensembles this season! Here is who to watch for...

Carolina Crown

• Josh Guttveg (SPW Synth); This will be his fourth year in DCI, and second year with Crown, aging-out on Synth.
• Randall Pierrot (SPW Tenors); This will be his rookie and age out year performing on tenors.
• Nick Skinner (SW Music Tech); This will be his third year performing on Trumpet with Crown.
• Paula Monique (SW Music Caption Head); This will be her second year working on the Brass Staff for Crown.

Bluecoats

• Nicole Oliva (SW Baritone); This will be her second year marching in DCI, first year marching with the Bluecoats.
• Malik Neille (SW Trumpet); This will be his rookie year marching in DCI.
• Jason 'Paco' Nunes (SW Program Coordinator); This will be his second year working on the Visual Team of the Blue Coats.

The Cadets

• Adam Kuffner (SP2 Visual tech); and will be his third and age-out year performing on trumpet with the Cadets.
• Joshua Brenneis (SW Visual Tech); This is his second year on the visual staff for the Cadets.

Santa Clara Vanguard

• Daniel Riley (SWG Drill Designer); This will be his second year as Caption Manager for SCV.
• Jason Ciesla (SWG Choreographer); this will be his second year working as a Colorguard Tech for SCV.

Phantom Regiment

• Franco Flores (SPW Cymbals); This will be his third year in DCI, and second year marching contra for Phantom Regiment.

Boston Crusaders

• Adam Khan (SPW Cymbals); this will be his second year marching Contra.
• Eddy Falcon (SPW Program Coordinator); Eddy will be taking on the new role as the Visual Caption Manger.
• Matt Rusnak (SPW Visual Tech)
• Johnny Miller (SPW Visual Tech)

Troopers

• Sofia Friederwitzer (SW Mellophone); This will her rookie year, marching trumpet for Troopers.

Colts

• Christopher Baños (SPW Bass Tech); This will be his first year as a Bass Tech for the Colts.

The Academy

• Justin Adams (SPW Snare); This will be his rookie year marching in DCI on Snare.
• CIsco Hance (SPW Battery Arranger and Caption Head); This will be his second year teaching for the Academy as Percussion Manger.
• Nathan Skinner (SPW Front Ensemble Arranger); This will his his first year teaching at the Academy.

Heat Wave (Open Class)

• Zachary Langstaff (SP2 Tenors); This will be his first year marching tenors in DCI.
• Ximena Rivas (SPW Marimba); This will be her first year marching tenors in DCI.

Legends (Open Class)

• Jose Grosfeld (SW Contra); This will be his rookie year with Legends.