Blake’s Cause for the Corps

My name is Blake and I am very excited to share my story and ask for your support. I have spent my life dedicated to playing an instrument that I love to explore and try and master. Most call it a tuba but it has many variations. A sousaphone, concert tuba, and most recently I’ve been exploring the contra tuba.

My journey started in middle school when I brought home this huge instrument that I knew nothing about and but was excited to learn. Even my parents were like, “What do you do with that?”, but were still supportive in my drive to figure it out. Throughout high school I had many trials and tribulations with my sound and learning how to March. With a lot of practice and spending many days driving my neighbors crazy with practicing in the yard, I stayed committed to this instrument and eager to master it. I then spent 4 years marching at Seminole High School as The Pride of the Tribe and was eager to continue my passion into college as a Marching Knight at the University of Central Florida. Also known as The Pride of a Central Florida. I am still currently a Marching Knight in my 3rd year at UCF.

As marching season wrapped up in 2022, I was awarded the hype train award and showed the most energy on the field. I plan to continue this energy.

All of these past experiences has lead me to this moment! I am excited to share that opportunity presented itself and I went for it!

I decided to audition for the big leagues! A little scary but I had to try. So after rounds of auditioning with the contra tuba and traveling back and forth from Florida to Colorado, I have been offered a contract and the opportunity to march with the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps that is ranked in the top 20 of World Class Drum Corps! As a Blue Knight I get the chance to compete in the Drum Corps International Tour.

Drum Corps International World Class corps compete to earn the title of DCI World Class Champion. As Marching Music’s Major League™, it has been the leader in producing events for the world’s most elite and exclusive marching ensembles for student musicians and performers. 

This is a dream for me and still doesn’t feel real. I want this so bad. Especially because I am considered a Rook-out. Meaning I age out after this year so it’s my only shot. Unfortunately, being a college student with the large amount of Ramen noodles I’m eating and trying to save money to get me there, I still need help.

Would you be willing to make a contribution to help me reach my goal? All of the donations I raise will help support my goal and the fees required to be a part of this tour. A gift of any amount would mean the world to me. It would also mean a lot if you could share my fundraiser link on social media or share with businesses for sponsorship. The more exposure I get, the faster I will reach my fundraising goal.

To all those who have been on this journey and watched me chase this dream, thank you. Your support is unwavering and I look forward to have you continue on this journey with me.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and share my story. Go Knights!

With love,

Blake