Just as the Rutgers Band is a tremendous part of my life, my commitment as a member of the Crossmen plays the same role. Each affects the other. What I learn through my experiences at Rutgers I apply to my time on tour with the Crossmen and vice versa. I will never pride myself on my musical ability, but marching requires so much more. The essential ingredients are cooperation, diligence, focus, an open mind, and trust.
Natural ability is secondary.
The five aforementioned elements I believe have brought the RU Band to its present caliber and have helped me to become a respected and proud member. I started my RU career as a clarinet player. I was asked to play trumpet the following year. I auditioned on soprano bugle for the Crossmen in 2000, but a baritone hole opened up 2 weeks before spring training, so I decided to take on a challenge and pick up the big horn. I am extremely excited for this upcoming summer and the 2001 drum corps season.