Charter Member Bob Albanese has this photo from an Allentown newspaper
showing four soloists from the 1983 DCA Championships. (Bob
is on the left).
Calling All Empire Statesmen Alumni!
In an effort
to continue the reach of our organization beyond your membership
years, the Empire Statesmen Drum & Bugle Corps are interested
in keeping together the community of its former members through
the Empire Statesmen Alumni Association.
While we are still not a formal Association, we would like to know if
you're interested in participating in such an organization. We would
also like to keep track of where you are and what you are doing.
If you
would like your information to be included on the alumni web
site, please use our new:
Married Travis Fitch (drummer) and have 2 children Madison - 9 years old and Bailey - 5 years old
I have been in the mortgage field for 19 years and currently working for M & T Bank. I used to do mortgage financing for MR. B!
I am currently involved in running the kids to dance class, girl scouts and soccer practices. My family still enjoy visiting practices and seeing shows when we can.
Married to Ted Kean (not a musician but otherwise perfect!) We have four kids: Erica (17), Dustin (15), Adam (14) and Jaime (12). I work as a contract administrator in the construction field back here in Pennsyltucky. I miss my old friends and have so many great memories from the Statesmen. I've been looking for photos from those years but haven't had any luck... any of you have some you might share?
Married to Mike for 13 years. We have 3 boys, Andrew(12), Samuel(8) and Elijah(6).
After various jobs in the drafting field over the years, I finally work for myself designing houses and drafting the plans.
Sadly-I am not involved anymore. Sam has started drums in the school band, so there is hope for the future generation. I still catch the occasional show, hoping to see old friends.
I marched in the honor guard in '92, since Empire I went back to Royalaires for a short stint but am now in my 5th season with Preston Scout House Alumni Band where I play Flugel. My kids are all grown up now, my son Jeff is 25 and my daughter Ashley is 23. 1992 was an amazing year, one I will cherish always!
Marched with the Rochester Crusaders from '97-'03 went to the Empire Statesmen Family in '04 Won my 1st and only (so far) DCA WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP in Scranton P.A. currently not Marching.
Became A Firefighter in Brighton NY graduated the fire academy in Spring of '05 and currently Volunteer for the Rochester Fire Department Protectives with hopes of becoming a Firefighter for the city of Rochester.
I was the brass caption head, arranger, soloist and instructor.
I have a BA in Music, and have been a Middle School Band director.
I am a member of the World Drum Corps Hall of Fame, inducted in 1995, basically because of the Empire Statesmen’s success during the early nineties…those were great years with great people!!!
I presently have my own business in the competitive arts as I arrange music and consult for many marching bands throughout the northeast US. I also teach and arrange for numerous Alumni corps, including Mighty St. Joes, the Erie Thunderbirds, and Prime Time Brass. I am still the arranger for the Rochester Crusaders (DCA) as well.
I am an active performer with Prime Time Brass, and have begun performing again locally as a freelance trumpet player. I still love teaching as I have my hands in 4 bands from Long Island and downstate NY.
I am also an active music judge for the Calvalcade of Bands and NYSFBC. I love this activity and have been involved in it since 1966…celebrating 40 years this year.
Mr. B will never be forgotten, as he was the one that inspired me to teach music again. Even though I have taught and arranged music for many other DCA corps, I will always be a Statesman in heart.
I have been a Monroe County 911 Telecommunicator since 2001.
Graduated from MCC in 2000 with a AS in Criminal Justice. I plan to graduate from Suny Brockport with my BA in 2007, also in Criminal Justice.
Drum corps has always been a part of my life. My mother marched as a teenager in the Emerald Cadets. Both Mom and Dad were involved with chaperoning and driving the bus when we were young. My sister Barb Fitch (Baker) starting marching before I was born, giving me little choice but to follow her into the Greece Shoreliners when I was finally old enough.
Years later I again followed her into the Statesmen. Even though I no longer march drum corps is still a major part of my life. Barb and I plan our vacations together around the DCI Championship shows allowing us to continue traveling.
I will be married as of September of 2006, can you believe it! He is a great guy, even though he has never marched drum corps. At least he did marching band in Texas.. lol.
Only marching members understand the extended family that you are blessed with from being part of such a great activity. I miss the "old times" and know that I think of all of you often.
Married Danielle Wife.. 3 boys Ken 14 Kristopher 11 Kyle 8
Career: Electronic Technician
Currently enrolled full time student Oswego State Music Program
I will be an Empire Statesmen for life.. The friends I met became my family and the memories of all the great times are forever etched in me and make me part of who I am. Thanks Mr. B and David
Hello Everyone!
I work for Imaginant Inc/JSR Ultrasonics in Pittsford, where I am Technical Engineer.
I got married in May of 2003 to Alex Basset and we had our first child, Madeline "Maddie" in January of 2006. We built a house in Gates (Right behind the high school, and when I hear their band practicing, so I find myself marching in step with them...why do we do that when we hear the music and drums?)
Since Marching with the Empire Statesmen, I graduated from RIT with a Master's in Human Resource Development in 2003. I went to Taiwan and lived and taught English for a year where I was able to travel to many asian countries. Currently, I work for the American Red Cross at Region Head Quarters in W.Henrietta, NY. I have not been involved with drum corp in many years but it will always be a part of me.
I have finally received my Masters in Music Performance from SUNY-Purchase College. I am currently working as a student advisor with a test prep. company called Kaplan. I have a bunch of students throughout westchester county and the NYC area, and I am currently prepating to take a bunch of orchestral auditions. I can not believe how long it has been since I have marched and there are no words to describe how much I miss this activity.I met some very talented and amazing people through this corps and I hope you all are doing well.
I was a marching member for two Undefeated DCA and Percussion titles during the 1994 and 1997 seasons. More recently, after marching with the Rochester Crusaders for 2001 and 2002, I returned as a percussion teacher for the 03-05 seasons with 2004 being my first championship as a teacher. I also was a Percussion Teacher for the Empire Cadets 2004-2005.
I'm currently going to school to finish my Music Education Degree at SCC in Dayton, Oh. I teach lessons with 3 different school districts here on a daily basis which gives me 18 students, I'm also the Percussion Caption Head with one of those districts for the marching band with Fairborn High School.
Some of the greatest moments in my life so far have been with the Statesmen and the drumcorps activity. I only wish there were more people from my neck of the woods that would drive to the ROC every weekend or at least share the driving so
we could all enjoy.
Oh,I almost forgot. I enjoy watching the bengals, playing golf, video games and
hunting/fishing.
If your coming to WGI or "on your way through" going to BOA, drop me a line. I would love to hear from ya.
Went to DCA 2006. Turns out you can go home again. Thanks, David, Joey, Allen and Teddy for inviting me in again after 10 years. Guess I'll see you in 2007. I'll bring Tammy, Sasha & Samantha so you can get caught up. Whoever came up with this part of the website, a big "thank you". It's been fun reading and remembering.
Started out with the Little Americans (Empire Cadets) in 1998 where I played trumpet. I also learned how to play cymbals, and then snare.
At 14 I wanted to try to make the Empire Statesmen, my grandfather( Mr.B )said only if I had good grades, but if I started to drop in my schooling, I had to drop out, needless to say I keep my grades up, High Honor role to be exact.
My first year with the Statesmen I was part of the cymbal line which we called the Cymbal Rats(named ourselves after the show we did that year which was titled The Rat Pack)
Next year I tried out for the snare line and made it where I played for the next 2 years.
Even though the statesmen family is still dear to my heart I have moved on for now.
I am a graduate of Webster Schroeder High School and currently attending the University at Buffalo
Started out with the Little Americans (Empire Cadets ) from 1998 - 2000 where I played cymbals. I also learned to play bass and then snare.
In 2001, I joined the Statesmen, I was part of the cymbal line (Cymbal Rats), named after the show that year, RAT PACK.
Next year I tried out for the bass line and made it where I played 3RD Base for the next 2 years.
Even though I’m not currently marching, coming up through the ranks under the wing of my grandfather (Mr.B) has taught me the value of teamwork and respect of others.
I am a graduate of Webster Schroeder High School and currently attending Monroe Community College.
Miss the statesman and especially the chief porkchop Vince (god bless him)
Graduated MCC 1991, worked for Kodak and J&J until 2003.
Along the way met and married Debbie, had two children, Molly and Joe. Recieve another AS from MCC in Paramedic 1999, and finally my BS in Biochemistry from RIT 2001. Started as EMT and then paramedic at National Ambulance then Rural Metro in 1991 and never gave it up.
I now am full time there saving the residents of Rochester from themselves one call at a time.
I have been employed from 1990 until the present as a full time Professional Fire Lieutenant & Paramedic for the City Of Lockport Fire Department. After my Divorce I founded and now run, and own a fleet of 9 Limousines and a company called Mac Limousine Company, LLC. Take a peek: www.maclimo.com
Worked as a Model doing TV and Prints ads for Kodak, M&T bank, Circuit City, Time Warner, AM&A's, Independant Health, Great Atlantic Motion Picture Company, General Motors, Genetropine, The Buffalo Bills, Yahoo.com, Visera Eye Products, and Rosas.
See the link for Exxcell: http://www.exxcelmodel.com/profiles.htm
I have two young kids ages 6 and 7 and they are happy and beautiful. They live far from me but I try to see them every two weeks.
I miss the corps and it was a huge part of my life. In fact I attribute my companies success to the work ethics that I learned in drum corps.
As a side note I am a 6 Time Drum and Bugle Corps World Championship winner with the Garfield Cadets, Brigadiers, and the Statesmen and would love one more year on the field someday.
I started with Frontiersmen, Niagara Regioneers, Renegades, and finally Statesmen. Brought up with the best of character circles like Vince, Dave, and the many who helped recarve the face of drum corps, I have followed the same attitudes in life. While I travel all over the country working as tech support for International Trucks, I can still here Vince calling me a pork chop and still feel the hype of waiting to enter a lit field for the best 13 minutes of my life.
I've been married for 21 years to Karen and have 3 kids, 18, 15, 13.
It's still exciting to bump into drum corp fans and talk about great moments.
Thanks for the character and the many nights on your floor Vince. Sorry about the glass table.
Russ
I belonged to the Ridge-Culver Statesmen from 1960 - 1964.
In 1964 my mother died and I moved to Savannah, Georgia to live with my uncle.
I played soprano bugle in the old Statesmen under the eye of Vince Bruni. At that time Mr. B's organization was known as the UDC or United Drum Corps and included the Statesmen (at that time a junior corps with all members under 18), The Alpine Girls - similarly a junior corp for girls only, The Pardee Pacers, an organization for kids sixth grade & under and the Crusaders which was the senior corps of the group.
Currently work for Walt Disney. Playing the role of Cinderella for the upcoming Disney Live tour for 2006-2007. The tour starts in April and will cover the USA, Mexico and then Japan.
Marched with original Ridge-Culver Statesmen who were part of the United Drum
Corps (UDC- Statesmen;Crusaders;Alpine Girls;Pardee Pacers) under Vince Bruni and Doc Mizma. Final year marched with Crusaders who were National Champions that year. Still follow the activity every year in Houston and home in Rochester,N.Y. - Thinking about joining local Senior Corps in Houston - Drum Corps will always be in my blood and life...Bachelor's Degree in Political Science form Universiy of Houston- Retired from AT&T - Starting Second career working for Prairie View A&M University and obtaining MLS
Made the trip from Erie,PA in 86 with a group of disgruntled "Excaliber' members. Came back in 88 and 89(still looking for a copy of the 88 video....anybody???) I am currently semi retired from the activity, performing on a limited basis with the Erie Thunderbirds Alumni. 30 years doing this "thing of ours". In 2005 was inducted as a charter/life member in the Pennsylvania DCHOF. Currently married to the love of my life,Shelly, and loving life on our 30 acre horse farm.
I was a lead soprano in the early 90's and had the privilege to stand next to Donny and Boots as we were announced champions for the first time in 1991. Currently, I am a History Professor at Monroe Community College, and the Hotchkiss Fellow of History at Syracuse University.
I left Drum Corps to pursue a very elusive Rugby Football championship, and two broken shoulders, two blown ankles, a torn MCL and ACL later I never did accomplish that goal. So I will always remember at least winning everything onnce - and that only took some tired feet, and of course some real patience with others (as on the Drum Corps Field you can't just hit them hard). I continue to be somewhat involved with Rugby. Following Mr. Bruni's example in many ways, in 2002 I founded the School Without Walls Barbarians high school Rugby team (were at the time I taught Social Studies) and was a co-founder of Rochester Youth Rugby - which in just one year became the NYS Youth (High School) Rugby Conference, one of the largest in North America with over 26 teams.
Marched in Statesmen Jr(along with Jim Connelly and John Phillipson who have posted here) which back then meant you were a member of the Crusaders Sr if they needed you LOL. Add to that list Magnificent Yankees summer 1965/St Joes Batavia on/off 68-70, Rochester Crusaders 1972.
After my wife Lindsey passed in London in 2001 of ovarian cancer
I am winding down an acting "career"(as in retiring from The British Actors Equity Union;-)that has allowed me to be everything(31 musicals so far) from Emile DeBeque in South Pacific to King Arthur in Camelot as well as support roles in shows like Phantom of the Opera and Three Penny Opera and afforded me the opportunity to live in places like New York, London and St Petersburg Russia.
I credit drum corps and specifically Mr Bruni with providing me with the basis for my acting"career"...career in parenthesis because my actual degrees are an BA(Cornell) and an MBA(Rutgers).
Like one of the posters above alluded to...to my knowlege Vinnie never referred to me as a "pork chop" but often referred to many of us as "old pros"......and I credit him for giving me a certain tenacity to achieve.
...as in "Lets do it again...one MORE once!"
Thanks Mr B.
I am still playing my horn but not with the United Alumni out of Simcoe, Ontario. Its a very part time sort of thing but since I bought myself a sailboat I have been pretty much living on it in the summer and its just too long of a sail to Rochester every weekend. Being a member of Statesmen has been one of the best experiences of my life and being a part of Mr. B's Canadian Regiment was an honour I will hold deep in my heart forever.
See Ya
Marching with the Crusaders ever since...well if you know me you'll know the ever since story...I am now the Secretary of the Board of Directors at Crusaders and I am also a tech for the guard.
I learned everything about drum corps from Empire...and thankfully I get to take that now to my family at Crusaders.
Married to Cristin (Sabourin) for 5 years with 2 year old Tyler.
Bachelors in Music Education and Master's in Music Education in Conducting from Mansfield University.
This is my 5th year as band director at Pocono Mountain East High School in Swiftwater, PA. I play trumpet with the Dave Neith Jazz Orchestra and as a freelance trumpeter. I've worked with the Lehigh Valley knights as a Drill Designer and NY Skyliners as a Brass Instructor and Consultant.
DCA Individual Awards: Mellophone-2 years, Duet-2 years.
Drum Corps: I am currently the Managing Editor for Drum Corps Planet News (http://www.drumcorpsplanet.com/) and, for the past two years, have been heavily involved with the "Live From the Stands" coverage of DCA Championships on the DCP discussion forums. I am also performing with the Erie Thunderbirds Alumni Corps for 2008.
Work: I am the Network Assistant for DeVore Technologies, Inc., in Bedford, Ohio. I have been working at DeVore since June of 2007 along with fellow Statesmen Alumni Bob Higgins (Contra, 2000).
Personal: My wife, Rachel, and I have been married for over 4 years (since December of 2003). We recently purchased our first home in Medina, Ohio. We also own two cats (I think they actually own us).
Living in the Fairport/Penfield area with my husband, Dennis Jamrose, and our 2 dogs Jeter and Annie. I'm currently the Director of US Tax Compliance at Eastman Kodak, and am also on the Board of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Rochester. This alumni site is a great idea!!
My wife Dale, kids Lisa and Tyler and I began with the Statesmen in 1998 and have completely enjoyed our "on the field" experience again. The friends and memories we've made will always be with us. Prior to '98, I have been involved in drum corps since 1976 with the Erie Thunderbirds and Excalibur. I continue to be the brass arranger and instructor for the Thunderbirds, and have won six DCA Mini Corps titles with them. (93, 94, 95, 96, 98 02).
I would have to say my most fond memory with the Statesmen was as the "Bartender" in 2001 and schmucking it up with Mr. "B" at the bar during the finals performance, to the point that he completely lost track of time and forgot to leave the field at his designated time, creating mass confusion with the drum line. (watch that video, and you'll see what I'm talking about!!! LOL!!)
I have been a professional musician since 1980 and have performed with nationally known artists such as Huey Lewis and the News, The Manhattan Transfer, Bob Newhart, Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, Bobby Vinton, Larry Elgart Orchestra, Debbie Boone, The Ringling Bros. and Barnham & Bailey Circus, and many others. I also play lead trumpet for the Dave Stevens Big Band, in Erie, and am featured on their first CD release "SoundStorm" with legendary trombonist, Randy Purcell, a Maynard alumni. During the week, I'm a financial advisor with my own firm, Gibbens Financial in Erie, PA
Although the marching bug never goes away, and the alure of returning for "just one more year", the onset of arthritis has prevented me from returning to the field, but I will always be a Statesman at heart! You might even find me in the Honor Guard from time to time if you look close enough!
Started Marching in '73 with Hamburg Kingsmen (color guard) switched to drums, Crusaders CG 75, Drum Line in 76-78, Westshoremen 78-80 (tympani), Renegades CG instruct, Statesmen CG instruct 80 81 (I think) Some might remember me as the kid with the yellow van. My Dad (Mr. G) was with me every step of the way, usually helping on the truck, or getting water or food for the corps. Our fondest memories were of Vince and Mickey, spending time at their home and cottage. Teaching Band camps in 76 at RIT. I even remember David playing cymbals. My Dad's died 3 years ago, but he never forgot the great times and friends he had at Drum Corps. I now live in Gettysburg Pa. Newly married to a wonderful woman (Dee) and I am a professional wet plate photographer (Civil War era process) and have a studio in Gettysburg. www.civilwarphotography.com I do a lot of History Channel. PBS stuff, worked on movies, even did a video with Bob Dylan. My Drum Corps years seem like a lifetime ago. I always loved the excitement of performing under the lights, though I never was much of a drummer. I look at how well the Corps has done and have an enormous sense of pride to know that Dad and I were there when it all started. when Vince told us about his idea while we catching perch on his boat in Lake Ontario.
I have been involved in the Luxury Cruise Industry since 1991. I am an Entertainment Director for Silversea Cruises. I work onboard our beautiful ships. As I write this I am sitting in the harbor of Safaga, Egypt. Have a look so you can see what I am talking about - www.silverseacruises.com
It is an exciting life that has taken me all over the world !
Remembering the times I had in the Statesmen were some of the best in my life.... working with people like Mr. B, Kevin, Tina, Jenny, Julie, Kenny, Chris, Dennis, Jen P., Jimmy and Annie.... these people I will never forget.... thanks for such great memories !
I am currently a Seargent in the Army. Right now I am deployed to Afghanistan again, which is why I am not marching.
I am engaged to Janis in the guard, so technically I am not married but well on my way. I live in Watertown/ FT Drum, NY when I am not galavanting all over the "stan".
I have two wondeful daughters who have grown up with the corps their whole lives. I miss everyone and can't wait to be back so I can march again.
Education/Career: Finishing up a Bachelors of Science in Professional Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University / Aviation Electricians Mate First Class, United States Navy
Misc: Traded in the long hair for a career in the Navy. Recently moved back to the States after four years in Japan. While in Japan, I was stationed on the USS Kitty Hawk.
Raising my wonderful now 2 year old son, and have since 2004 graduated college and am a New York State Licensed Massage Therapist. Miss drum corp.like crazy but life is good.
I began my Drum Corps days here with the Empire Statesmen in 1999 and 2000. I was a member of the Front Ensemble and played Timpani. I then went onto be the Timpanist of the Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps of Rosemont, IL in 2001, 2002.
I went to Edinboro University of PA where I studied Specialized Studies: Music Administration and Business.
My Teaching Experience includes: Marcus Whitman High school, Orchard Park High School, West Seneca West High School, and The Syracuse Brigadiers Drum and Bugle Corp.
I have spent the past year traveling a lot, all the way from the East to West coast now finding my residency in Chicago. I was living in Hollywood and I worked for a Talent Development Company. I also worked for the Kodak Theatre and worked the 78th Annual Academy Awards. I currently Live in Chicago and work for the Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corp where I am a Project Administrator. I also am a promoter for Monster Energy Drink.
I have a daughter, Elianna, she is a beautiful three year old. I haven't been involved in the activity since '00. I have done some M&M for a couple of local high schools.
AHHH...The chapters of life you always want to relive... The commitment, time, effort, sweat & tears put forth by everyone I marched with... The memories will live on. A greasy fast well oiled machine!!! I have many fond memories. Many great horn line moments with Jimmy, Donny, Tommy in front of us. The zing, sizzle and goose bumps at 6 F's !!! Donny breaking his RayBan's and putting his false teeth in upside down, Jimmy always getting us psyched... Tommy getting our footwork down with drill. 8 to 5 was not just our work schedule. These guys along with every years staff - always pushing us to the limits and we always found a little more to give. Pushups - situps. Watching the 3 of them come out of recaps every show fighting with the judges to understand what they missed - they busted their @$$es for us... The stuff that happens behinds the scenes... I thank them for that. We will always miss Mr. B. It's good to see David still keeping the corps going with all the others...and good to see others pickup for the alumni not marching. I know many of us would if we could. A quick hey to the Bari's I marched with... Juice/Troy and the rest...and where are you old Eastridge guys...? and who wants to go to WUBS? and remember FETUS ???!!!
I'm now in Clifton, NJ. Married to my wife Marianna - 2 yrs now... Yes - I did 12 years of Ukie gig- Ukrainian thing - www.vechirka.com til I moved to Clifton this year... strapping on 30 lbs of accordion for 5 hrs a night each gig and travelling all across North America was fun. They still have me in their pictures section. Now it's time to start a family. I worked for EDS @ Xerox for 10 years as a system administrator. Now, in NJ, I work for ADP headquarters in Roseland, NJ. I am a network specialist and perform Executive tech support for the entire Corporate division. I look forward to seeing you guys in NJ in the future... Hawthorne is 5 minutes away from me, but my days of marching are done... All the best to you guys... P.S... my brother - Stas is doing very well and working for my competitor Paychex.
You know, my brother's right... you get a rush of adrenaline when you put on a uniform and grab your instrument; the proverbial "suiting up." I still think about it, but officially I am stamped for Alumni gigs when available only.
Where to start? Well, I was with the Corps. technically until the beginning of Competition Season '97, when College life called me away. Went to Potsdam, Studied at the Crane School of Music (unfinished BA in Music Ed), but picked up a lot of experience, knowledge, became a member of an A Cappella group (www.pointercounts.org), brother in Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, and left with some great training and skills musically.) The Tux look never got old, as I went from the ol' White tux with black tie and cummerbund, to performing in the Traditional style black tuxedo. I still wear fedoras like Sinatra, occasionally. (Can you believe I still have the Sparkled Lapels?!) Currently, I work at Paychex as a 401k Data Integrity Anaylist (competitor to my Brother's company @ ADP) and have done some side work with A Cappella in Rochester (www.innerloopmusic.com) and freelance singing for weddings and other religious events. Currently in a relationship with my wonderful girlfriend, and still local.
MEMORIES...
Marching with the Cymbal line from '94 and '95, and Bass line '96 were great. I'll never forget Sinatra's Show. That performance set the bar for all other years. I may be biased, but nothing will EVER beat that show. My first rehearsal ever, Bob Scott told me - "you're not with the kids anymore... you have to act responsible. Nobody here is going to "baby" you. You do what you're asked, and give one hundred percent." (Thanks Bob!) The instructors; Alan, Brad, Brian, Tim, Irv, Gus, and Ken... taught me many things about percussion - it's not just a section; it's an attitude.
I remember the multitude of Nicknames (none mentioned here) that I received, Eastridge People, and still... holding the '96 Percussion Individs title for only Bass Line EVER to win it - 3 Bobs, a Babe, and Blackman! Tone, Kris, Todd, and my closest friend during those days and times - Dave G. Who else had the kahonies to march in t-shirts and Boxer shorts in public?!
To my brother Rich: thanks for always being "the standard" for me. I always followed in your musical footsteps growing up, and am grateful for you letting me piggyback* because I have a lot of spectacular memories for it.
Thanks to all the staff I ever had the pleasure of working with,(pause... this is beginning to sound like an Oscar Award Speech... resume) and especially a moment for Mr. B.
Mr. B. always taught me to stand up straight and tall, and would always call me a "porkchop" when I didn't. Perfection was demanded, and perfection was what he deserved. He gave me the opportunity of a lifetime, sending me with the corps to Bermuda. I will always cherish that. His wisdom, his passion for the corps, music and life were all awe-inspiring.
To wrap it up and quote another Alumni here; "Once a Statesmen, Always a Statesmen; Long Live the Statesmen."
Music Chair and Orchestra Director of a Gifted and Talented program in Brooklyn, NY. Also String Pedagogy adjunct professor at NYU.
Been busy but miss the mello's!
I've been married to John Kinane, for 7years, a drummer also from Statemsen whom I met teaching Jr corps in Corning.
We have 3 children, Amanda age 6, Matthew age 3 and Emily age 1.
I am currently working at Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield and I've been here for 4 years. Prior to that I spent a year and a half home being mommy after spending 5 years at a company doing Sales.
I'm not involved in the activity at this time. Children keep me way to busy!
I started marching in the Statesmen in 1983, yep, an original member!! I marched from '83 through '97, and again in '99, and am fortunate enough to have 3 World Titles and 3 Drum Trophies!! This is also where I met my beautiful wife, Jennifer (Pipech). We have been married since 1994 and have 2 children Amara (born 1996) and Michael (born 2001).
I am still involved in marching percussion by writing for and teaching several local marching bands. Most of my playing is with my students at Athena Middle School where I am a band director. I attended Nazareth College for my Bachelor's and Master's of Music and recently finished my Adminstration Certification at The University of Rochester. If it were not for drum and bugle corps, I would have never gotten into music school. I cannot thank Mr. Bruni, David and Tim Stodd enough for making me the player and person I am today.
I get to hang with several Statesmen Alunmi in the very cool band called The Half Ton Horns. Along with Jimmy Steele, Dave Seeley, Travis Fitch, Anna Manso and Jared Streiff, I get to play Funk, Soul, Rhythm and Roll very often with these great people. The friendships have lasted from ES and I would not trade them for anything.
There is no other way to say that the Statesmen has guided my life in every aspect. From personal to professional, there is no doubt that without ES, I would not be the luckiest man on earth, which I am.
I have been involved in the drumcorps activity since 1977, when I joined the Jubal Drum & Bugle corps here in our home town.
I taught numerous corps, among which oiur feeder corps Jong Jubal, the only two corps in Belgium (Borsalino and Freeliners) and was brass captionhead for the DIO all-girl drum & bugle corps from Dordrecht for about ten years and conducted several clinics/workshops.
Hobbies include photography, travelling, art, Carnaval.
Weblogs: www.haakaa.blogspot.com and www.hk-pix.blogspot.com
I am currently employed at Bentley Graphic Communications, in Pottstown PA. I accepted the job of Vice President of Information Technology last November and am currently in the process of relocating with family. I have beautiful little girl named Sabrina and my wife Korina.
I miss marching and hopefully someday I will be able to do it again.
I am currently a Director of Social Services at a local nursing facility in San Antonio, TX. I recevied my bachelors degree in Social Work at Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio, TX in 2001. A masters degree from New York University, NY in 2003. I have taught Revolution Drum and Bugle Corps in '02,'03. I also taught Revolution Winter Guard in '03,'04,'05 as well as other programs in Texas and California. I currently consult for some scholastic and independent color guard programs in San Antonio, TX.
I am currently the Director of the United Ways in Genesee and Orleans Counties. I have not marched or played a mellophone since the finals in 1996. I do play my french horn everyday still.
I have recently returned to support the Statesmen with adminstration efforts. I hope to catch up with all of you.
I've just finished my Master's of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology at SUNY Geneseo and am currently providing services to preschoolers with disabilities around the Rochester area. I will always remember my years with the Statesmen and will never forget the good friends and wonderful memories. Thank you all. Best wishes! I can't wait to catch the show this year!
Married to Cheryl (also a member of the Statesmen) 3 grown children, and 4 grandchildren
Instrumental and general music teacher (27 years), professional trumpeter, musical arranger for dozens of marching groups, DCA, DCI, DCE & NYSFBC adjudicator, director of the Hit Men Brass Band
Over 50 years in the drum corps activity and still going.
Member of WDCHOF ('99), member of the Rochester Crusader's HOF ('00), DCA's outstanding soloist award, 2 time DCA high brass award '90,'91(caption head & arranger), Staff Artist for Dynasty Musical Instruments, 3 time DCA Brass Ensemble Champion
I'M DIVORCED FATHER OF 1 DAUGHTER WITH 2 GRANDKIDS,I SERVED IN THE MARINES FOR 15YRS I AM CURRENTLY A DELIVEREY MANAGER FOR LARGE FURNITURE CO. I'M NOT INVOLVED IN ANY MUSIC ACTIVITIES OTHER WATCHING OR LISTENING WHENEVER POSSIBLE. I MISS THE COMPETITION AND THE FRIENDSHIPS FROM SO LONG AGO. THE CORPS AND MR.B IMPACTED MY LIFE VERY POSITIVELY AND STILL DOES TO THIS DAY. I HOPE TO MAQKE A TRIP BACK THERE AND HOPEFULLY SEE SOME OF YOU AGAIN.
I started my marching with the Niagara Frontiersmen from Tonowanda New York where I started on Baritone. From there I joined the Niagara Regionnaires and switched over to keyboards. And then the step to the Empire Statesmen to continue with keyboards. I have very fond memories of being part of the beginning of the corp from practicing in the mall parking lot to leaving one of my hats at Mr. B.'s while staying over there one weekend. Since then I've been married twice and have 5 kids. My oldest daughter and I eventually went on to march for a year with the Hamilton Firefighters.
I’ve been involved with, or marched in Drum Corps most of my young life: Shoreliner Cadets, Cadets of Greece, Fusion, Northmen, Crusaders & Statesmen.
I still love the activity, but have retired to be a stay at home dad raising our two boys Evan (6) and Connor (2).
Little did I know there really is life outside of drum corps, but I'm happy to say that my best friends are people that I marched with in Empire, especially my wife, Erika. We met in the Crusaders (she was in the pit, I was a snare drummer), and the rest is history.
I remember our very first rehearsal with Empire. Mr. B let the Corps know right then and there we would be bringing home a Championship that year. How right he was. In fact, Erika and I won 2 rings together as Statesmen, and I wouldn't have wanted to share it with anyone else.
Just needed to add that we also met and became friends with and a very great man, and a visionary in this activity while marching in the Statesmen, Mr. Vince Bruni. His door was always open for a quick hello or a long conversation. I miss those times with him.
Thanks Mr. B for the Friendship, Talks and Championships.
I'm proud to say I'm an Empire Alum. In fact while Paul and I were members of Empire we met some of our closest & dearest friends: Jimmy Steele, Terry Seiler, Joe Taylor, (To our kids' Uncle Jimmy, Aunt Terry & Uncle Joe) as well as reconnecting with Paul’s long time friend Ken Barden, just to name a few of many Statesmen that touched our lives.
This Corps just gets in your blood and stays there forever. It also makes an interesting bit of trivia to tell new people that I meet.
I will always love and cherish the time I spent with the Statesmen, especially playing One Hand One Heart in the end zone after winning finals in 1998.
It was my best drum corps moment ever. Thanks for that song and memory Jimmy.
I have 1 boy; Aaron who at some point - I hope - will follow in his mommy and daddy's footsteps :)
I'm a little government worker bee working for the Region of Waterloo.
My mellophone is gathering dust in a closet :( and I haven't seen a drumcorps show since...2000 I think!
Grew up in Liverpool, Bach and Masters in Music Ed from Ithaca. Marched Star of Indiana in 87. Taught Liverpool fall of 87 and Steve Holden ( multi-toms)convinced me to check out the Statesmen. Was teaching band in Albion when I was marching, moved over to Wayne Central. Married Peter in 1990(remember that reception? I think the whole corps was there!)who reluctantly joined the horn line for one year so he could spend some time with me. We have two boys, ages 8 and 12. I teach general music at Ontario Primary, love it, but miss performing. I keep saying "someday, one more season!" Maybe if I can extricate myself from all of these "Mommy" committments ( Cub Scouts, PTA, you know the stuff). Great memories, Tammy, Sandy, Tom and Sue, Barney, Kenny, JAson, Chris, miss you all. Still get that adrenaline rush every time I see a show!
Marched Euphonium in 2000 and Contrabass 01-04. Two weeks after our win in 04, my job introduced mandatory weekend overtime and I havent stopped since. Im a CNC machinest for Swagelok in Solon Ohio.
Ahhh the memories of driving through blizzards in nowhere western NY in the middle of the night with 8 other people, no sleep, cant see 5 feet in front of us.....what a time!!
I will be back David, I promise! My contra is sitting here begging me to play her!!
After 25yrs out of competitive corps, marched Kilties in 1991,then moved to Empire in 2000 (Phantom year). Four great years then another in 2006.
My luck (or maybe it was me?)2004 was Championship year, oh well.
DCHOF Assoc member (thank you Mr B!) and still have the 'bug', but not the time.
Married (40yrs!! holy $%&# I'm gettin' up there), two kids, four grandkids, all are both athletic and musical.
Still playing my 'G' bugle up here in Canada.
I'm currently single and am adopting my 5 year old niece.
I'm living in Virginia Beach, Va. I'm a Third Class Aviation Electrician in the U.S. Navy working on F/A-18 Hornets, that's a fighter jet for anyone who didn't know.
I just graduated from Mansfield University with a B.A. in Music (vocal). I'm moving on to study vocal jazz and teach classical voice at Phil Mattson's School for Music Vocations at SWCC in Creston, Iowa. I go to as many drum corps shows as possible, but since singing took top priority in my life, I haven't been an active member. But as you all probably know...I miss it very much and hope to come back someday!
Im a graduate of Pittsford Sutherland High School and I am currently a freshman at SUNY Morrisville. I started out in the Little Americans (Empire Cadets) in about 2001. In 2002 I saw my first drum corps competiton (rochester show at U of R), and decided that was what i wanted to do. The following year i joined the Statesmen cymbal line. I marched the cymbal line again in 04, i also earned my first and only (so far) DCA Championship. In 2005 i made the bassline, but was pulled do to "personal" reasons. In 2006 i joined the Rochester Crusaders, and I'm currently still there as a snare player. Next year i plan to try out for the Santa Clara Vanguard. One thing I find cool about marching cru is that I've actually marched with half of my instructors (at empire),so we always find ourselves talking about old memories and experiences we had. Empire was my family and i had a blast. My days of statesmen are certainly not over.
Well, I was brought into the drum corps activity and Statesmen specifically through Tim Stodd, since I attended Hilton CSD. I joined the Statesmen in 1996 on cymbals, then marched bass drum #4 in 1997, and then made my final move to the front ensemble in 1998. I left after three amazing seasons and two world championships, to pursue my degree in music education at SUNY Fredonia. In 2002, I graduated with a BA and a BM, and in 2005 I graduated with my MM in music performance.
In 2002, I started teaching instrumental music in Le Roy and had my first drum corps teaching experience as the front ensemble instructor with the Rochester Crusaders, where the front ensemble placed 1st in I&E. The next year I came back to my first home with the Statesmen to act as, you guessed it, front ensemble instructor. I stayed for three seasons (04, 05 & 06), and loved every minute of it. I am taking some time off now to spend time with my wonderful wife, and fellow Statesmen pit member Jessica.
Currently, I write music for Imagine Music Publishing (www.imaginemusicpublishing.com), play drums for a local rock and jazz band (www.pointofviewband.com) and teach percussion privately. In addition, I am an instrumental music teacher for the Le Roy Central School District (www.leroynymusic.com), as the Director of the Elementary Band, Jr. High School Band, Elementary Jazz Band, Junior High Jazz Band, Marching Band (04 & 05 NYSFBC Small School Div. III Champions), and Percussion Ensemble.
I would just like to thank both Vince and David for all of the wonderful performance and instructional opportunities and experiences. Where else can you both see and wow the world?!
I was first introduced to the Bruni family through my participation as a flute and piccolo player in the Hilton CSD Marching Band, where I was often (and affectionately) referred to as “cookie” or “cupcake” by Mr. B. I don’t believe I was ever labeled as a “pork chop,” but could see where I have fit that definition at times.
I fell away from music for several years to get my BS in English and my K-6 teaching certification at SUNY Brockport, but after gaining a position as a third grade teacher and establishing myself in the profession, was coaxed back into it my husband, percussionist Matthew Nordhausen. His passion for both performing and listening to music and his enthusiasm in teaching prompted me to dust off my flute and join him in playing for special appearances in the rock/jazz cover band, Point of View. A few years later, I began playing more frequently with the group, becoming a full-time participant.
Around that time, I joined Matt in the front ensemble of the Rochester Crusaders in the 2003 season, where he spent tireless hours attempting to teach me how to play mallet instruments (I know I was a “pork chop” during that time and he has been amazingly patient). The year later, I followed as Matt was called back to his Statesmen roots for the 2004 season, and enjoyed three successful and enjoyable seasons with the organization, exploring and learning more about being a musician and showman/woman, and all the while, getting a nice tan!
This year, Matt and I are taking some time off from the activity to enjoy each other’s company and relax for a period of time. We will be keeping a close eye on the corps and will be rooting everyone along! I thank the organization for the friends and fun I’ve had the past few years, and for continuing to make Matt and I feel like part of the family! The Empire Statesmen are a class act, one that is sure to be successful for many years to come!
I Marched in the 2001 Season with a Group of kids from my Colour Guard in Toronto, Canada.
I have been out of the activity since 2001 after many many years in the Winter Guard and Drum corps activity. I miss drum corps very much although I am very busy with a new Venture.....I Opened a Dance Studio in Canada in July of this year and find myself very very busy (thank God) the Studio is Called Casablanca Ballroom & Dance Studio Inc. We teach Children and Adults in Latin, Ballroom, Jazz, Modern, Ballet, Hip Hop and soon......I hope to start a Colour guard in the Town I am living.
I do have to say I miss the Statesmen Experience and I even more miss the people that I was honoured to meet throughout the season I spent with Statesmen.
I wish you all the very best of luck and want you to know that I always wonder how you are doing.
Send off an email if you wish, I would love to reconnect to the gang!
Bon Chance Statesmen!
Rick Petherick
Employed by Ace Hardware--company merchandiser/advertising coordinator
Music Caption Head/Arranger--Chippewa High School Doylestown, OH 1998,2000-2006
Just got engaged Feb. 06
Marching with the Statesmen has been the greatest experience of my life. The friends, memories, and educational techniques I've acquired from being a member are truely priceless. With my new job promotion, I hope to return for the '07 season. It's definitely worth the 5 hour trip up and back every weekend.
Marched with the Statesman from 1960-65. Joined the Crusaders in fall '65. got a call for Uncle Sam and served two tours in the Nam as a company comander, (capt.). Never played again but will alway keep those years close to my heart with my many friends and all the great times. Went back to college got a Masters in economics and a phd in international business. VP of the largest automobile dealer operation in the USA. Servered three terms on local schoo,board and one term as a Denton county commis
