Inside the Green Machine: Franco Perez

Monday, May 21st, 2012 - 6:50 PM
By Dan Minkel
Posted by Christopher Lugo

The Cavaliers Drum & Bugle Corps consists of many moving parts -- from new and veteran marching members to dedicated management, staff, and volunteers. Throughout this summer, we'll be featuring the people who help shape the Cavalier experience, giving YOU a behind-the-scenes perspective on your favorite corps. The Cavaliers are proud to welcome you, Inside the Green Machine!

In our fourth installment, we feature second-year snare drummer, Franco Perez:

Please tell us your name, hometown and a little about your time with The Cavaliers.

My name is Francisco "Franco" Perez, and I am from Austin, Texas. This is my second year marching with the snare line.

What do you do outside of The Cavaliers?

I am a music education major at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas.

Why did you initially choose The Cavaliers?

Growing up, it was always my dream to march here. I've had so many awesome teachers that have marched with The Cavaliers, and they inspired me to keep working hard and to audition. This is the best corps that's out there.

What is your all time favorite Cavaliers program?

I'm going to have to say 2003's 'Spin Cycle.' It's an awesome visual program with an amazing drum book. It was an incredible production overall.

What makes the 2012 season unique?

The people here, particularly in the battery. Everyone's fun to be around, and everyone works well together.

What do The Cavaliers mean to you personally?

I've put in so much hard work, and auditioned three times before making it. It is the first place that I've been extremely proud to be a part of the organization.

What advice would you give someone who eventually wants to join The Cavaliers?

Just work hard, and don't get frustrated if you don't make it the first time. It's good to keep pushing yourself, and hard work will always pays off. If you put forth the effort, you're going to get to where you want to be.

Stay tuned for more installments of Inside the Green Machine!

By Dan Minkel, Marketing Communications Intern

May 21, 2012 - Manny Gandia

May 20, 2012 - Jesse Backes

May 20, 2012 - Caleb Lamb

Founded in 1948, The Cavaliers are one of the most successful drum and bugle corps in history, winning 20 national championships, including seven Drum Corps International world championships since 1992. Each summer, 150 male brass, percussion and color guard performers aged 16-22 present a marching music show considered among the most challenging and original in the world.

The group performs at more than 30 competitions across the US and for more than 100,000 fans. Along the way, the young men not only learn about music and performing, but have a life-changing experience based on excellence, teamwork and camaraderie.

The Cavaliers Drum & Bugle Corps is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization sponsored by The Village of Rosemont, Illinois.