FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps Welcomes Josh Thye as Executive Director Tempe, AZ – December 2, 2024 – The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps, a nationallyrecognized organization dedicated to excellence in music and the performing arts, proudlyannounces the appointment of Mr. Josh Thye as Executive Director, effective June 1, 2025. Mr. […]
Author Archives: AAPA Admin
Academy Staff
The Academy Announces Planned Departure of Founder and Executive Director Mark Richardson
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Jul
Jul
[Tempe, Arizona, July 2024] – The Arizona Academy of the Performing Arts (AAPA) is announcing the planned departure of our Founder and Executive Director, Mark Richardson, who will be stepping down in May 2025 after serving in his role since 2000. Mark has been the driving force behind AAPA since its inception, shaping it into […]
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Apr
Apr
The Academy is extremely excited to welcome Kevin Welborn, Marc Whitlock, and Derek Fields to the production team for The Academy. These incredible educators are bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the members and staff of The Academy and focused on maximizing the effectiveness and excellence of the entire ensemble through a cohesive, […]
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Jan
Jan
SHOW REVEAL ALERT?!?!?!?!? No, not quite that cool, but still exciting news regarding the annual fundraising campaign with the WM Phoenix Open. Our board will TRIPLE your donation! Your $100 donation will actually become a $330 gift to The Academy. Follow the link below for all of the details!
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Jan
Jan
As the season is fast approaching, The Academy is pleased to share the Lead Staff for the Percussion Team. See all of their bios and check back as the entire team is finalized soon.
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Jan
Jan
The Academy is selling some fantastic used audio gear, and you won’t want to miss out on these incredible deals! Whether you’re a musician, audio enthusiast, or just looking to upgrade your equipment, we’ve got something for everyone. For any questions or inquiries about the gear, contact Mark Richardson at mark@arizonaacademy.org. Don’t miss this chance […]
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Nov
Nov
We are thrilled to announce the newest additions to The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps leadership team. Join us in welcoming Andrew Gregory and Robert Peterson as our Co-Caption Heads for the upcoming season. Their wealth of experience, dedication to excellence, and passion for the marching arts make them the perfect duo to lead our […]
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Nov
Nov
Kelsey Brunson Joins The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps as Corps Manager The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps is thrilled to announce the newest addition to its administration team, Kelsey Brunson, who will serve as Corps Manager and partnering with the recently appointed Corps Director, Josh Thye. Kelsey Brunson brings a wealth of experience and […]
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Nov
Nov
The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps Welcomes the leaders of the 2024 Design Team. New to the team this year include Program Coordinator John Max McFarland, Artistic Designer Tony Nuñez, Consultant Brian Murphy, Drill Designer Justin Cunha, and Color Guard Caption Head Ricardo Robinson-Shinall. Returning to the team are Music Designer Fred Smith and Brass […]