Well my friends, the time has come!

My name is Noah Caldera, I’m 21 years old from Burleson, TX, and this winter I’ll be marching my fourth and final season of WGI Percussion with Broken City. I’ve spent nearly five years in the front ensemble (nine consecutive seasons of independent marching experience) - from Guardians, Blue Knights, Vigilantes, through most recently, Troopers. Every organization that I have had the privilege to be part of has left an unforgettable impact on my life, teaching me not just how to perform at a high level, but how to grow into the person, teammate, and educator I am today. This past summer, I closed out the final chapter in my drum corps career with the Troopers, and now I have the rare chance to finish it all with Broken City, an ensemble that has inspired me since the very beginning.

Dayton, Ohio. 2019 WGI Finals. High school freshman Noah sat in the stands, watching some group his director had mentioned "was about to break a world record." That night, they did just that. Broken City won their first world championship. That performance alone would light a spark within me, realizing the true potential of this activity. To finally have the opportunity now, in my age-out season, feels like closing a loop that started years ago. This season is the culmination of years of hard work, friendships, and lessons that have shaped who I am.

As excited as I am, this opportunity also comes with a considerable logistical and financial challenge. Unlike drum corps, WGI ensembles tend to rehearse only on weekends, with no housing or meals provided. To make this season possible, I’ll be moving from Texas to California and covering rent, transportation, food, and other living expenses on top of membership fees. This is where I’m asking for your help. Any amount, whether through a donation or simply sharing this fundraiser, will make a difference in helping me take on this last chapter. I cannot fully express how much it means to me to end my marching career with Broken City, and I am immensely grateful for the support that has carried me this far.

If only freshman Noah could see me now!

"Be encouraged, and encourage others."