Inside the Green Machine: Mike Flynn

Tuesday, May 22nd, 2012 - 8:37 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 next installment, we feature third-year vibraphone, Mike Flynn:

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

My name is Michael Flynn, and I am from Barrington, Ill. I play the vibraphone in the front ensemble, and this is my third year with The Cavaliers.

What do you do outside of The Cavaliers?

I am a Mechanical Engineering major at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. It's a full-time commitment, and usually that's all I focus on outside of The Cavaliers.

Why did you initially choose The Cavaliers?

My father and brother marched The Cavaliers, and I would see drum corps shows every year. I really wanted to march, so I tried out and made it.

What inspires you to keep coming back?

Mostly the people. I've made a lot of friends here who are some of the best friends I've ever had.

What is your all time favorite Cavaliers program?

Either 'And So It Goes' (2007) or 'Samurai' (2008). Those were the first drum corps shows that I really payed attention and learned to appreciate.

What makes the 2012 season unique?

The atmosphere of the corps is very positive. Everyone's excited about the show and bonding extremely well.

What do The Cavaliers mean to you personally?

The Cavaliers are a great group of brothers that I can talk with about anything and feel comfortable.

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

Even if you don't feel ready, come try out anyway. Everyone made it here because of hard work, and not everyone makes it on their first try.

Stay tuned for more installments of Inside the Green Machine!

By Dan Minkel, Marketing Communications Intern

May 22, 2012 - Brian Wulf

May 21, 2012 - Ian Caldwell

May 21, 2012 - Geddy Pontiff

May 21, 2012 - Dustin Ingram

May 21, 2012 - Franco Perez

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.