Ascend Performing Arts

Ascend Performing Arts is a multifaceted youth performing arts organization based in Aurora, Colorado, dedicated to fostering the education and growth of young individuals through high-caliber performing arts programs.

Established in 1958, the organization has become a prominent entity in the Rocky Mountain region. It offers a diverse range of programs that promote teamwork, discipline, leadership, and self-esteem among its participants.

Core Programs and Ensembles

At the heart of Ascend Performing Arts are its esteemed ensembles:

• Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps: An internationally acclaimed drum corps that provides young musicians with the opportunity to perform at the highest level, instilling a strong work ethic and a sense of community.
• Blue Knights Percussion Ensemble: A four-time Winter Guard International Champion ensemble that offers specialized training and performance opportunities for percussionists.
• Blue Knights Winds: An ensemble focusing on wind instruments, providing a platform for wind musicians to develop skills and perform collaboratively.

Educational Initiatives

Ascend Performing Arts is committed to educational outreach through various initiatives:

• BKXperience Clinics: Clinics catering to students of varying performance levels, offering hands-on training from world-class instructors in the marching arts.
• Spark! An Ideas Conference: A seminar designed for band directors, music educators, and college students, aiming to inspire and inform participants with sessions on music and visual technique, fundraising ideas, and networking opportunities.
• Ascend Music Education Program: An outreach program targeting grade school, middle school, and high school students in the Denver-metro area to inspire and engage young people in the arts for life.

Events and Entertainment

The organization hosts and participates in several events showcasing young talent:

• Drums Along the Rockies: A premier drum corps show featuring top ensembles from around the country.
• Corps Encore: An event bringing together various drum corps for a night of performances.
• Friendship Cup: A unique marching band competition in Colorado allowing bands to compete with similarly sized units, independent of school classification.

Ascend Performing Arts also provides entertainment services for events such as parades, ceremonies, corporate events, and concerts. Their ensembles have performed at notable venues including Denver Broncos home games, the 2017 Formula 1 Gulf Air Grand Prix in Bahrain, and the 2015 Alpine World Ski Championship Opening Ceremonies.

Locations

The organization's headquarters and main operations are located in Aurora, Colorado. The primary locations include:

• Aurora, CO, USA (two locations within the city)

These central locations serve as hubs for administrative operations, events, and rehearsals.

Through its comprehensive programs and events, Ascend Performing Arts continues to have a significant impact on the lives of young performers. It provides opportunities to excel in the performing arts while fostering personal growth and community engagement.