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 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.

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!

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.

Meet Cisco Hance, Ensemble Director of SPW

Cisco Hance has been involved with STRYKE since 2008. This season he will be leading the ensemble as Ensemble Director, overseeing the ensembles Design and Education team as well as continuing to arrange the battery music. Cisco is very excited in what STRYKE 2017 has in store.

About Cisco

Osman “Cisco”  Hance currently resides in Port St. Lucie, FL. He has been involved with DCI since 2003. He started marching with Magic of Orlando under the instruction of Colin McNutt and Brian Tinkel.  In 2005 he joined Carolina Crown and acted as center snare and percussion section leader from 2005-2007. While at Crown he was under the instruction of Brian Tinkel, Jeff Queen, Ian Hale, Lee Beddis, Zach Shlicker, and Luis Rivera. 

In 2009, Cisco worked as the snare tech for the Teal Sound Drum and Bugle Corps, where he helped the corps successfully transition into DCI’s World Class.  Subsequently, Cisco became the snare technician for the Madison Scouts Drum and Bugle Corps.  Today, Cisco serves as the Percussion Director/Arranger for the Park Vista Marching Band in Lake Worth, Florida as well as the Director of Percussion at Jupiter High School in Jupiter, FL.  He served as the Percussion Coordinator in 2014, and percussion manger in 2016 for The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps,

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.

#MotivationMonday; Improve Your Sight-Reading Skills!

As the school year comes to a close and summer rolls out, STRYKE wants to motivate you to to get better during your summer break! As part of #MotivationMonday, we will be sharing articles, tutorials, and resources every monday during the summer.

We kick-off #MotivationMonday with a game, but not just any game, a Speed Note Reading Game. 

"If you’ve ever wanted to get faster at reading keyboard music (and who doesn’t?), then the “Speed Note Reading Tutor” is for you! Designed to reinforce note-naming and ‘key finding’ skills, this computer game is a fun way for beginning–intermediate students to get repetitive practice, while trying to ‘beat the clock’ and score as many points as possible."

This game was developed by Mark Wessel of Vic Firth Inc, to help students develop better sight-reading skills in a fun and encouraging environment. Put your sight-reading skills to the test and see how far you can go. Click here to get started!

Don't forget, our Annual Summer Clinic is July 16th! Click here to learn more about it!

STRYKE 2016 Banquet

On Sunday May 15th, STRYKE members and family arrived to a beautiful custom decorated banquet to celebrate the 2016 season. The room was filled with purple balloons, streamers, custom table clothes, and even our very own custom STRYKE podium. All of the decorations were graciously donated by the Origins Colorguard. The DJ set the mood and got the party started. Everyone was severed a home cooked meal provided by the Coletto family, as well as drinks and dessert provided by our awesome STRYKE Parents.

As everyone settled into their tables, the awards presentation began. Each director of the four STRYKE ensembles presented their awards for the 2016 season. Here are the results of the awards.

STRYKE Winterguard Awards

• Most Improved Flag - Nicole Gimmler
• Most Improved Weapon - Savannah Wilson
• Best Flag Performer - Joey Cassell
• Best Weapon Performer - Brandon Chiucchi
• Member of the Year - Ashley Wood

STRYKE Percussion 2 Awards

• Commitment Award - Shane McGee
• Teamwork Award - Katie Miller
• Most Improved Visual - Zachary Langstaff
• Most Improved Music (Battery) - Joseph Meacham
• Most Improved Music (Front Ensemble) - Camilla Lin
• Best Visual Performer - Kevin Molina
• Best Musical Performer (Battery) - Tripp Jones
• Best Musical Performer (Front Ensemble) - Dejur Kirnon
• Rookie of the Year - Alex Motsenbocker
• Member of the Year - Derek Watson

STRYKE Wynds Awards

• Most Improved Visual - Melanie Trump
• Most Improved Music (Woodwinds) - Kelby Fredrick
• Most Improved Music (Brass) - Steven Cruz
• Best Visual Performer - Josh Hogan
• Best Musical Performer - Joella Dunn
• Rookie of the Year - Josh Daniels
• Member of the Year - Chip Collier

STRYKE Percussion Awards

• Commitment Award - Aolani Santiago
• Teamwork Award - Zoe Giordano
• Most Improved Visual - Andee Jones
• Most Improved Music (Battery) - Mason McCall
• Most Improved Music (Front Ensemble) - Alejandro Tanquero
• Best Visual Performer - Beethoven Arnett
• Best Musical Performer (Battery) - Stanley Dessalines
• Best Musical Performer (Front Ensemble) - Jonathan McGrath
• Rookie of the Year - Adam Khan
• Member of the Year - Adam Hatfield

The STRYKE Charm

Each individual from each ensemble was presented with the very first ever STRYKE Charm. This is a new tradition that is only given to ensemble members. 

The 2016 STRYKE Ageouts

From left to right: Alex Siegelman (SPW), Bjorn Roland (SPW), Zoe Giordano (SPW), Michael Roddis (SPW), Beethoven Arnett (SPW), Jon White (SPW), Adam Hatfield (SPW), Samantha Woodward (SWG). Not present: Kevin Bien-Aime (SP2)

The 2016 STRYKE Ageouts were presented with a special custom made STRYKE charm, representing their time, sacrifice, and loyalty to the organization.

A Poem by Will Hill

Before the banquet came to a close, Will Hill surprised everyone when he took a moment to talk about a family member we lost, as well as what this organization meant to him. He presented us with his beautiful handwritten poem.  

 "DK All the Way" 

(A tribute to Dan Kohlmann, and the Stryke Members he loved)

You are a PERFORMER
Allow your light to shine for an Audience
Bring GOOD to your performance
For THIS is the purest bright, people will see

To those who aspire to be in your SEAT
The light pierces the lens, with the halo of...
It Could be ME...
As they study Your Technique, 
their vision and dreams, begin to arrive complete. 

For those once Standing in your Spot
Their memories are laced with, a MUCH bigger SHOT!
As they stand and see your Light
It is the distance it covers,
that makes them FEEL right.

At the CORE of your shine
There is a RESPONSIBILITY to the Source of your dime
They watch and listen, with fear and trepidation
Soon they realize, your light is bright and CLEAR
Their Pridefull Heart swells
The GOOD in You, was developed here. 

At the fringe and depth of darkness
Your light reaches to the crest of a NEW Horizon
Continue to bring GOOD to those you touch
It will become your LEGACY
For that, you can always TRUST  

-Will Hill

The banquet concluded with a fantastic video produced by Kellie McDaniel, capturing the moments of the 2016 season. There was no better way to end the evening, showing all the joy and hard work the members put into making this an incredible season for the entire STRYKE organization.

We would like to once again thank the Origins Colorguard and all of the STRYKE Parents that made this banquet a special experience for the members to have. We couldn't have done this without you, THANK YOU!

In Review: WGI World Championships

Another exciting WGI season has come and gone.  The STRYKE organization had four ensembles hit the road to Dayton, OH to compete in the 2016 WGI World Championships!

SWG performing in Prelims at the Dayton Convention Center

STRYKE’s WGI Championships began with the newly formed STRYKE Winterguard competing at the WGI Championships for the first time ever.  It's easy to say they had the time of their life as they performed their show "The Lonely Road" in the WGI Championship events and experienced the activity from a national/international level.  Though they didn't qualify into Semifinals, the Directors and staff were extremely proud of what this group was able to accomplish in its inaugural season.  The STRYKE and PAC organization is thrilled to have this ensemble represent them in the WGI Colorguard segment of the activity.  The future looks bright for STRYKE Winterguard and the members can't wait for the next season to start!

SPW rehearsing at the Hara Arena on Tuesday night

As the Winterguard Championship week concluded, the Percussion and Winds Championship week was just getting started.  STRYKE Percussion (SPW), STRYKE Percussion 2 (SP2) and STRYKE Wynds (SW) all hit the road to Dayton with focus and determination.  STRYKE Percussion arrived to Dayton on Tuesday and went straight to work at the Hara Arena.  They worked extremely hard as they prepared for their Prelims performance of their show “Only One” on Thursday at the University of Dayton Arena.  SPW advanced in to Semifinals but did not qualify for the PIW Finals.  The Ensemble Director, David Yunis, addressed the group that night following the news.

"We sometimes forget that the 'competition' is the medium of this activity but what we get out of this is more than a placement and a score.  After the years go by, no one will remember your show or score, but the moments and memories you created with each other will personally last you a lifetime.  Now, more than ever, you will know what it means to be part of the STRYKE Family."

SPW learned a valuable lesson on Friday.  They held their chin up high and rallied behind their brothers and sisters actively helping and cheering on SP2 as they watched them perform in the PIA Finals and then Saturday doing the same with SW in their Winds Prelims.

SP2 taking photos after earning Gold and Fan Favorite in PIA. 

STRYKE Percussion 2 entered the 2016 WGI season in its inaugural year with high hopes.  They began their WGI Championships with a Prelim performance on Thursday afternoon in Millett Hall at Miami University.  The energy ran high and the ensemble had a strong performance of their show "Red" which not only resulted in a first place finish, but qualified them for Finals.  On Friday night they prepared for their final performance of the season in the University of Dayton arena.  As the curtain pulled back, SP2 was greeted with howls and cheers from their brothers and sisters of SPW and SW. The 'wolf pack' put on their best performance of the season keeping them on top of the PIA classification and earned them a first place finish.  SP2 is the first ensemble in the STRYKE organization to capture the gold; in addition to first place, they were also voted the 2016 Fan Favorite of the PIA division.

But wait….....it’s not over yet!

SW taking photos after earning Gold and Fan Favorite in WIO. 

The week continued with STRYKE Wynds' Prelims performance on Saturday at the Nutter Center at Wright State University.  The ensemble was calm and cool and took control of the floor with their performance of "DéjàVu".  They took a commanding lead placing them in 1st place.  The scenario was no different on Sunday at the UD Arena as they ended in 1st place in the WIO classification and also captured the 2016 Fan Favorite in the Independent Winds category.  Some people can say that STRYKE experienced "Déjà vu" as both ensembles earned gold medal placements and their respective Fan Favorites.  Get it?

Overall, we are extremely proud and humbled as all four of our ensembles represented the growth of the South Florida community in all three areas (Colorguard, Percussion and Winds).  We can't wait to see what the future holds for these ensembles and the South Florida community!

STRYKE would like to thank and congratulate all the ensembles that performed in the WGI World Championships this year.  The activity and community continues to grow stronger and we are proud to be a part of it!  We would also like to thank WGI for putting together one of the best performance experiences possible.

Thank you to all our sponsors and partners that made this season incredible for all four of our groups.  And a special thank you to all the parents, staff, volunteers and donors that contributed to the success of this organization.  Without you, this season would not have been possible.

Now that the WGI season is over, be on the lookout for the MFC Drumline at the Miami FC games during their upcoming soccer season and also be on the lookout for our Annual STRYKE Summer Camp date(s) that will be announced soon!

In Review: SFWGA Championships

Last Weekend, SFWGA held Championships at Jupiter HS. On Saturday, SWG took the floor with their strongest performance of the season receiving 2nd place. In addition to the Color-guard championship competition of Saturday night, some of our STRYKE Parents and Staff performed for the first time ever in exhibition with their newest group called "Origins" (a Senior Color-guard). This group of former color-guard performers joined together over the season and rehearsed on their own off time to put a production together. It was truly a special moment for the members of Origins as they performed to a sold-out crowd on Saturday night.

On Sunday night, Wynds, SP2 and SPW took the floor for championship competition, and all three ensembles received 1st place in their classification. Before SPW began their show, Adam Hatfield (Ensemble Leader for SPW) took a moment to speak about the most recent death of STRYKE's Family member, Dan Kohlmann. After a moment of silence, SPW dedicated their championship performance to Dan and the Kohlmann family. In addition, members wrote "DK" on their shoulder in honor of Dan Kohlmann. 

"Dan was an amazing person and a dedicated father. He will be truly missed."

This week SWG will be traveling to Dayton, OH for WGI Championships! This will be an exciting moment as they represent STRYKE for the first time ever in the Color-guard circuit. The entire organization wishes them the best of luck!

Also happening this weekend will be the debut of the MFC Drumline (Miami FC's Official Drumline) on Saturday 8pm, at FIU Stadium. And on Sunday, SP2 and SPW will be hosting their F&F Send-Off Performance at Hollywood Hills HS at 3pm. Don't miss your last chance to see them perform in South Florida.

As WGI Championships is upon us, we ask you to show your support to these hard working ensembles with a contribution to their "Road to Dayton". The cost of fuel, transportation, hotel, and member accommodations are extremely expensive and continue to grow each year. So we ask for your support with a donation/contribution towards these members to have the experience they deserve on the road to Dayton. Click here to donate now.

In Review: WGI Orlando/Southeastern Championship

Last week STRYKE traveled to Central Florida for the WGI Orlando Regional and Southeastern Championship. All four ensemble were present and ready for competition. SWG performed for the first time ever at the Southeastern Championship placing 8th in IA. STRYKE Wynds had a great performance earning them 1st place in the WIO division. SP2 made the crowd "howl" with their performance of Red, and came in 2nd in PIA. SPW added many new elements to their show Only One, including their Snap-Back Hats and new custom On2percussion slips. Each drum features a silhouette of crowd with #OnlyOne single individual highlighted in red. SPW placed in 2nd with a strong performance in finals.

Click here to see the recap of the Colorguard, Wynds, and Percussion scores.

Our final competition in Florida is the SFWGA Championship in Jupiter HS. Come show your support, as these four dedicated ensembles finish their season.

As WGI Championships is fast approaching, we ask you to show your support to these hard working ensembles with a contribution to their "Road to Dayton". The cost of fuel, transportation, hotel, and member accommodations are extremely expensive and continue to grow each year. So we ask for your support with a donation/contribution towards these members to have the experience they deserve on the road to Dayton. Click here to donate now.

In Review: SFWGA Championship Prelims

This past Saturday was the SFWGA Championship Prelims at John I. Leonard and Park Vista HS. All four ensembles had a fantastic performances. The Winterguard placed in 2nd with their performance of The Lonely Road. STRYKE Wynds earned 1st place with their performance of Déjà Vu. SP2 performed their rendition of Little Red Riding Hood "Red" earning them 1st place. STRYKE Percussion closed out the night at John I. Leonard with their performance of Only One, putting them in 1st place. 

Click here to see the Colorguard Scores, Winds Score, and Percussion Scores.

Next up, all four ensembles will be traveling to Central Florida to perform at the WGI Orlando Regional and the WGI Southeastern Championships. This will be the secound WGI Performance for all four ensembles this season. Make sure to catch them before it's too late!

In Review: WGI Boca Raton Regional

This past Saturday was the first WGI Regional of the season, and we had the best weather that South Florida has to offer.

STRYKE Wynds performed their full production of "Déjà vu" on Saturday. The ensemble closed their show by bringing the audience to the starting formation of the show making them look twice and say "Didn't I just see that?"

Click here to see a full recap of the Prelims and Finals scores.

STRYKE Percussion 2, took their story of Little Red Riding Hood to another level as the ensemble transformed themselves as the wolf pack, and debuted Little Red Riding Hood (performed by Grace Luxton.) The production of Red has a haunting  rendition of "Lady in Red" that captures the essence of the show.

Click here to see a full recap of the Prelims and Finals score.

STRYKE Percussion (PIW) closed the regional with their performance of "Only One". Their performance was electrifying from beginning to end. The climax of the show features music from Kanye West "Only One", reminding the audience of the importance of "One".

Click here to see a full recap of the Prelims and Finals scores. Also, don't forget this Sunday (March 6th) is SPW's 3rd Open rehearsal. Come by for a behind the scene look of "Only One".

You can catch these ensembles again on March 12th at the SFWGA John I. Leonard Competition. Also, on March 19th all four ensembles will be traveling to Central Florida for the Orlando WGI Regional, and the WGI Southeastern Championships. The Season is halfway over, don't miss your chance to catch these shows! 

In Review: SFWGA Olympic Heights and West Broward Performances

This Saturday was the second SFWGA performance for SPW, SP2, and SW at Olympic Heights HS. As well as the third performance for SWG at West Broward HS. SP2, SPW, and SW's earned first place and SWG earned 2nd place. View the Percussion  score recap, Winds score recap, and the Guard score recap.

SWG next performance is this Saturday at the WGI Tampa Regional. SPW, SP2 and SW's next performance is on February 27th at the WGI Boca Regional.

Don't forget! You can get a behind the scenes look at SPW's 2nd Open Rehearsal this upcoming Sunday (Feb 21st). Make sure to RSVP. 

Remember to follow us on our social media pages to see the latest footage of STRYKE!

STRYKE Open Rehearsal Invitation

Have you ever wondered what goes on at a STRYKE rehearsal? Well, now's your chance to get a behind-the-scenes look of STRYKE Percussion! We are currently inviting you to three open rehearsals during the 2016 season.

This is a unique opportunity to see an Indoor Percussion Ensemble in action. Get to know the Cast and see them rehearsing their 2016 production of "Only One". 

Invitations are limited, so please RSVP to our open rehearsals asap in order to secure your invitation. 

NOTE: Filming and Photos are restricted during rehearsal.