Impulse Drum Corps News Releases

[Mr Pageantry]

Buena Park, California: On New Year’s Day, the 116th annual Tournament of Roses Parade was led by Impulse member Eric “Henry” Escobar as he and the Tournament of Roses Herald Trumpets led the annual parade on the five mile route through the city of Pasadena, California. Section leader and senior member Henry Escobar won the spot by audition. “It was a great experience,” he says. When asked if he would do this five-mile parade again Henry does not hesitate. “Sure, this is pretty easy compared to drum corps.” This exclusive group is part of the Tournament of Roses Honor Band, which is made up of high school and collegiate musicians from all over southern California. The Herald Trumpets traditionally lead off, performing fanfares the entire length of the parade, while banners hanging from their special trumpets proclaim the New Year has begun. The annual parade is televised around the world, with over a million attendees along the parade route.



Pulse! Percussion is the newest member of Impulse Youth Arts, and is their competitive winter drum line. Pulse! was selected to perform at this year’s Winter NAMM Show. NAMM is an industry-only trade conference showcasing the latest in music products and innovations from around the world, and is the largest music industry trade show in the United States. “What a great opportunity for us to introduce ourselves to the entire world,” says Pulse! Director Ray Santos, “The crowd was great, our sponsors were supportive and it was a great experience.”



Impulse members Kyle Spraker and Josh Pelton were selected to perform at the NAMM show also, but for a more somber occasion. Each year, a ceremony is held to remember the passing of those that have shaped the music industry. Kyle and Josh performed a Taps and Echo on opposite sides of the hall during the memorial. “We were glad to take part in this,” says Kyle. Josh adds, “It was an honor to be there and to honor those legends of the music business.”



Impulse Youth Arts Organization hosted Maynard Ferguson and his Big Bop Nouveau Band in late January. The fundraising event brought the legendary jazz trumpeter to Orange County, California, while helping raise awareness of Impulse Drum & Bugle Corps and Impulse Youth Arts Organization throughout the community. According to event organizer Charles Hargett, “The event is to be considered a success and the benefits will still be felt long after the concert is over. There are many jazz fans in the area that didn’t even know there was a drum corps in their community. Now they are aware and are seeking to get involved.” Maynard Ferguson first rose to fame as a member of the Stan Kenton Orchestra, later becoming a bandleader in his own right. He continues to tour heavily and show no signs of slowing down.



Charles Hargett
Impulse Youth Arts