Ashton's Drum Corp Dream

Hello, I am Ashton Rodriguez. I am a student at Texas State University pursuing a Music Education degree. I take pride in being a hard-working first-gen student. I take my academics very seriously, as not many people have the opportunities I have. I made the Dean’s list my first semester and have been invited to three different honor societies. I am a brother of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia at the Gamma Phi Chapter. I am very grateful to be sharing my experiences with you.

I started off my band experience in 6th grade, as many do. When I started I picked up trumpet since that is what my father played in high school. After my first year, I loved beginner band, but I didn’t like the trumpet. The following year I opted to switch to the trombone, where I remained on trombone throughout middle school. I fell in love with the trombone and knew that was the only instrument I wanted to play. Then life threw a curve ball at me, my freshman year of high school I found out all the trombone players marched baritone. It was a major switch for me since for the past 2 years I thought my valve days were over. Nevertheless, I didn’t give up, I remember spending hours trying to remember which notes required what fingerings. Thanks to my dedication I was able to become my school's section leader as a Junior and kept that leadership role through my Senior year. Thanks to my past I was able to obtain a contract for the 2024 season at Genesis Drum and Bugle Corp.

Being able to tour with Genesis as a rookie was the most memorable experience ever. I felt as if this had become my new home, and everyone I marched with was now my family. It brought me comfort when I was on tour. When it came to marching for the 2025 season, I was unsure if I wanted to take a year off. I decided maybe this year isn’t the year for me. Then I was offered a deal I couldn’t pass up. I was given a contract to return as the Baritone Section Leader for the 2025 season.

Once again thank you for letting me share my story. Any donation means the world to me as it brings me closer to my dreams. If you are unable to donate do not fret, as a simple repost helps just as much. Thank you so much!