Design Team

Chad Moore, Esq., Design Coordinator
Alex Beltran, United Percussion World Director Program Coordinator & Battery Arranger
Zach Schlicher, Battery Production Designer
Iain Moyer, Front Ensemble Orchestrator
Ian Hale, Music Coordinator
Tony Lymon, Audio Designer
Jaime Holly, Visual Design

Scroll Below For Staff Biography Information

DESIGN TEAM

Chad Moore, Esq.

Design Coordinator

Chad began his marching career with the 15-time Atlantic Coast Champion Middle Township High School Marching Band. In 1993, Chad marched snare with the Jersey Surf Drum and Bugle Corps. During his span with MTHS, they won 15 Atlantic Coast Championship titles including 7 straight seasons, 4 percussion titles and 8 top three percussion placements. MTHS also won 3 TIA indoor titles during that span, including 2 undefeated seasons. In 2001, Chad joined the two time WGI PIO finalist Riptide Indoor Percussion Ensemble as the battery instructor. From 2002-2003, Chad served as the percussion caption head and arranger for the 2002 WGI Mid-Atlantic Regional finalist and 2003 TIA PSO bronze medalist Archbishop Ryan. Chad has been with United since its inception. In that span, United has won 3 World Championship medals, including the 2007 Independent Open World Championship. United was promoted to world class in 2008 and has been a world class finalist 17 times and finished top 8, 8 times. Chad has been a member of the WGI Percussion Advisory Board since 2003 and is a current member of the Vic Firth Education team. Chad's educational background includes a B.A. and J.D. from Rutgers University. He practices civil law in New Jersey and is the managing partner for the law firm Hoagland, Longo, Moran, Dunst & Doukas.

Alex Beltran

United Percussion World Program Director & Battery Arranger

Alex Beltran is an active writer, teacher, performer, and clinician from New England, now based in Southwest Ohio. He holds a Masters Degree in Music History from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst where he also received an Undergraduate Degree in Percussion Performance studying under Ayano Kataoka and Thom Hannum. 

While at UMass, Alex was a member of the UMass Minuteman Marching Band Battery from 2010 through 2013. He was also a member of The Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps from 2011 through 2014, where he won the DCI World Championship in 2011 and the Fred Sanford High Percussion Award while serving as battery section leader for the 2013 season. Following his age out from The Cadets, he transitioned to the battery staff as the main quad technician for the 2015 and 2016 seasons before joining the percussion staff at the Boston Crusaders in 2017. 

During his graduate studies, Alex served as Teaching Assistant to Thom Hannum from 2014 to 2016 where he worked primarily with the front ensemble. From 2016 through 2019, Alex worked as the primary instructor for the UMass Drumline, where he arranged for the battery alongside Thom Hannum and Colin McNutt, and facilitated daily rehearsals for the entire percussion section. 

Outside of United Percussion, Alex is the Battery Caption Manager for the Boston Crusaders Drum and Bugle Corps, where he handles the daily teaching, equipment, and logistical needs of the battery and coordinates the teaching staff. He is also the interim Associate Director of the University of Cincinnati Bearcat Bands program, where he oversees the writing, growth, and development of the percussion program of the Bearcat Bands. 

Alex proudly endorses Vic Firth Sticks and Mallets, Zildjian Cymbals, and Pearl Adams Instruments

Zach Schlicher

Battery Production Designer

Zach Schlicher began performing in the marching arts in 1997. As a member of his high school marching band, Zach was exposed to Drum Corps International. In 2001, he earned a position in the snare line with The Cadets and continued to perform there for the next four seasons. Upon aging out, he began teaching the Madison Scouts. After two seasons with the Scouts, he spent the next ten seasons on the faculty of Carolina Crown. Currently, he is on the faculty of the Boston Crusaders. Away from the drum corps field, Zach works with several scholastic and independent programs within Winter Guard International, Bands of America, as well as international ensembles. During the fall and winter months, he occasionally adjudicates marching bands and indoor percussion ensembles around the United States.

Zach studied percussion at Indiana University of Pennsylvania and the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. Along with his design/instruction commitments, Zach occasionally performs on cast with Aerial Experience Productions, JQProductions and has performed with Blue Devils Entertainment. For quick educational features, he can be found on VicFirth.com in the video lesson series, “Hybrid Rudiments.” Over the course of twenty years, he has been able to develop a unique set of skills which allow him to take on multiple responsibilities and roles with any ensemble.

Iain Moyer

Front Ensemble Orchestrator

2025 will be Iain Moyer’s second season as Front Ensemble Orchestrator for United Percussion. He looks forward to collaborating with Alex Beltran, Ian Hale, and Tony Lymon on this year’s music design. 

He served as the Front Ensemble Arranger for The Boston Crusaders since 2017 and previously served as the arranger for The Cadets from 2009-2016.

Moyer is the Director of Athletic Bands at Widener University, where he oversees the Marching Band and Basketball Pep Band. Moyer also directs the Widener Percussion Ensemble and teaches private lessons. 

Iain Moyer is a signature artist with Vic Firth and is endorsed by Remo, Pearl/Adams, and Zildjian.

Ian Hale

Music Coordinator

Ian Hale received degrees in percussion performance from the University of Calgary and the University of Massachusetts Amherst where his teachers included Dr. Glenn Price, Eduardo Leandro, and DCI Hall of Fame member and Professor Emeritus at UMass, Thom Hannum. He has studied marimba with Leigh Howard Stevens, Gordon Stout, and She-e Wu. He was a member of the music faculty at UMass from 2007-2008 and is currently the Associate Director of the Minuteman Marching Band. He was the Assistant Director of Bands for the Calgary Stampede Showband from 2009-2011 and has served as Percussion Director for Spirit Winter Percussion from Orleans, Massachusetts since 2012.

Ian has worked with many national and international ensembles including the Calgary Stampede Showband, Spirit of America, Thomas Jefferson High School, Dartmouth Indoor Percussion, United Percussion where he has served as front ensemble arranger since 2017, Boston University, the Brazilian Vanguard, and the U.S. Army All-American Marching Band. He was a member of the percussion staff for the Madison Scouts, Carolina Crown, and the Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps. He is currently on the percussion staff for the Boston Crusaders Drum and Bugle Corps where he has served since 2017.

Ian is endorsed by Pearl/Adams musical instruments, Vic Firth Inc., Zildjian Corporation, and Remo Inc.

Tony Lymon

Audio Designer

Tony is a distinguished Artistic Director, recognized for his expertise in show design within the marching arts. Currently serving as the Artistic Director for the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps and Artistic Design/Sound Design for United Percussion (PIW), Tony also holds the role of creative designer for feniX Independent Winterguard (IW), ViP Percussion (PIW), UP2 Open (PIO), Vision Percussion (PIO), and Boswell HS (PSW).

With extensive experience, Tony has made a lasting impression on the marching band and percussion community. Recently concluding a twenty-four-year tenure as founder and show designer for Petal Indoor Percussion Theatre (PSW), a WGI Percussion Scholastic World Class Finalist, he has also contributed significantly as the co-music arranger/show designer for the Petal High School marching band, guiding them to success on both regional and national platforms.

Tony's achievements include twice being honored as the Outstanding Junior High Director of the Southeast Mississippi Band Directors Association and receiving the prestigious 2008 Mississippi Bandmasters Association AE McClain Outstanding Young Band Director Award. Beyond local programs, he established and led the Eminence Indoor Percussion Ensemble, a WGI Open Class finalist and championship ensemble.

Graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Music Education from the University of Southern Mississippi, Tony showcased his talent as a principal percussionist in esteemed ensembles. His drum corps journey began as a member of the front ensemble of the World Champion Star of Indiana Drum and Bugle Corps from 1991 to 1993. Tony's creativity transcended conventional paths, leading him to a successful professional performance career with the pop/rock band King Konga. The band's international tours and chart-topping success solidified Tony's versatility and skill.

In recent years, Tony's influence expanded to renowned drum corps such as Carolina Crown, The Madison Scouts, and Pacific Crest, where he contributed to design and creative teams, shaping memorable performances. Alongside his artistic endeavors, he owns Eidetic Creative, a multimedia design business. Residing in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Tony cherishes family life with his wife Emily and daughter Colette. His commitment to the art of show design continues to inspire and elevate performers and audiences alike, leaving a lasting impact on the marching arts community.

Jaime Holly

Visual Design

Jaime Holly has been involved in the marching arts for over three decades. He began his marching career with the Concord Blue Devils in 1989 and aged out in 1993. He returned to teach the Blue Devils in 1997, where he currently serves as the Visual Caption Head and Designer there.

Jaime started his career with a BS in Mathematics from Fresno State. He earned a teaching credential from Cal State Hayward and was a math teacher at James Logan High School before he decided to give it up for the fame and fortune of drill writing. Since then, he’s had the opportunity to work with several award-winning high schools in BOA and WBA across the country such as Blue Springs High School and LD Bell High School. During the winter season he’s currently working with groups in DCI and WGI such as RCC and United Percussion. Jaime has also had the pleasure of working with the Soka Renaissance Vanguard from Tokyo, Japan for the past decade. Jaime currently resides in Long Beach with his wife Rebekah and their daughter Parker. In their free time they enjoy their city and traveling to explore new ones.

INSTRUCTIONAL TEAM

Anthony Shelton

Co-Battery Coordinator

This is Anthony’s fourth year on staff with United Percussion! In 2013, he marched as a member of UP in the snare line. He is a local NJ resident and looks forward to returning for another season as a Co-Battery Coordinator!

Anthony is a graduate of the University of Delaware. He started his marching career in 2012 as a member of Jersey Surf playing marimba. In 2013, Anthony returned to Jersey Surf and performed as a member of the snare line. He later went on to march with United Percussion, Cadets Winter Percussion, and The Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps. He has been a staff member previously for groups including The University of Delaware Marching Band, George Mason University Indoor Drumline, and the Bushwackers Drum and Bugle Corps.

Currently Anthony works based out of New York City in the Revenue & Strategy Department for “Row NYC” and serves as a Realtor-Associate® for Keller Williams City Life Realty in Hoboken, NJ. He looks forward to returning for another season with United Percussion and is excited to help educate the next generation of marching enthusiasts!

Tony Teleky

Co-Battery Coordinator/Choreographer

Tony has been drumming for 20 years. In the marching arts specifically, he has over a decade of experience, including roles as a performer and instructor with some of the most competitive groups in DCI and WGI. He first joined the battery staff at United Percussion in 2023 as Co-Battery Coordinator, and was part of the 2023 season Carolina Crown battery staff, which helped lead the ensemble to a DCI Bronze medal. He has also been part of the Spirit of Atlanta battery staff since Fall 2019.  Tony has also taught, designed, and arranged award-winning shows at the high school level, including with the 2018 Atlantic Coast Champion Huntington High School band. He has worked with high schools and marching programs across the country, including Petal HS, Alchemy Independent, Cary HS, Green Hope HS, and the Matt Savage Marching Percussion Camp. Tony also offers private lessons and mentorship to individual students, both in-person and virtually.

Since the beginning of high school, Tony has performed with a variety of DCI and WGI groups, including Broken City Percussion, The Cadets, George Mason University Indoor, Imperial Dynasty, Cadets Winter Percussion, and Cadets2. With Broken City, he earned WGI PIW Silver and Bronze medals in the 2017 and 2018 seasons respectively, and with The Cadets, Tony earned a DCI World Class Bronze Medal and a Distinguished Service Award as the snare/battery section leader.

Tony earned masters and bachelors degrees from Duke University, where he focused on mechanical engineering, material science, and engineering management. He continues research and development of percussion products, including the Tony Teleky Signature Bus Pad, which he developed in partnership with Beetle Percussion. Tony is also a drum set artist, and has performed with jazz bands and musical theater groups at colleges, high schools, and community theater programs. He is part of the Blue Devils Entertainment family and performs in the New York Giants Drumline. Tony is a Product Manager for AdImpact, an advertising analytics company.

Tony is a member of the Vic Firth Education Team, the Beetle Percussion Artist Team, and the National Eagle Scout Association.

Zach Tarman

Co-Battery Coordinator

Zach is very excited to be returning for the 2024 season! After performing as a member of the United Percussion World ensemble from 2019-2022, Zach joined the UPW battery staff in 2023. He has also been a member of The Cadets2 for the 2017 season, a member of The Cadets for their 2018, 2019 and 2020-2021 seasons, and a quad technician for the Bushwackers Drum and Bugle Corps for their 2022 and 2023 seasons.

In addition to teaching with independent ensembles, Zach has taught various high school programs throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania, including Hillsborough High School. Outside of the marching arts, he received his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Rutgers University, and he currently works as a software engineer with J.W. Pepper & Son, Inc.

Patrick McHale

Snare Technician

Brian Spencer

Snare Technician

Brian Spencer is a percussion and visual educator and designer from Eastern Massachusetts. He is a graduate from Boston College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music with a concentration in Ethnomusicology.

Brian’s performance experience includes programs such as Boston Crusaders Drum and Bugle Corps, Music City Mystique, United Percussion, Spirit Winter Percussion, and Spartans Drum and Bugle Corps.

Brian is currently a Battery Technician at The Boston Crusaders Drum and Bugle Corps (MA), United Percussion (NJ), and Visual Caption Head at Everett HS (MA). His writing resume includes several ensembles from New England as well as the Mid-Atlantic and South Eastern regions. He is also on the WGI Future Leaders Committee helping to meet the needs of WGI’s current performers. During the day he is a K-8 music teacher in Everett Public Schools.

Drew Hunt

Snare Technician

Mike Keller

Snare Technician

Jarod Sullivan

Tenor Technician

Jarod Sullivan is a musician and educator based in Massachusetts. He is currently a student in the Masters in Music Education program (drumset concentration) at UMass Amherst, where he also received a Bachelor’s degree in Percussion Performance. In his time at UMass, he has worked with Thom Hannum, Ian Hale, and Colin McNutt. His marching career started in high school and continued onto the Sunrisers (‘16-‘17) and Carolina Crown (‘20-‘21). He also marched in the UMass Drumline from 2018-2021. He has taught at various high schools in New York, was on staff at Carolina Crown (2022), and currently teaches the UMass Drumline as a graduate assistant under Ian Hale.

Charlie Gorham

Tenor Technician

Charlie Gorham is a percussion performer and educator from Northern Virginia, currently pursuing a M.M. in Music Education from The University of Massachusetts, Amherst. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Instrumental Music Education from George Mason University (Fairfax, VA) and serves on the percussion staff at Phantom Regiment Drum and Bugle Corps, James Madison High School (Vienna, VA), South County High School (Lorton, VA). He has been a performing member with the Reading Buccaneers (2017-2019), Carolina Crown (2020, 2022), and the George Mason University Indoor Drumline (2020-2023). In all three ensembles, Charlie was a battery section leader.

As a high school student, Charlie was a two-time WGI Scholastic Open Class Finalist and 2019 Scholastic World-Class Finalist with South County High School.

Charlie began his concert percussion studies at George Mason University in 2019 with mentorship and private instruction under John Kilkenny, Jon Bisesi, Jonathan Rance, John Spiritas , and Matt Penland. In 2022, he joined the jazz drum set studio at Mason and studied under Dr. Kevin McDonald. 

Currently in his first semester of graduate studies at UMass, Charlie studies jazz drum set under Prof. Thomas Giampietro. He is a graduate teaching assistant with the UMass Minuteman Marching Band under mentorship from Ian Hale.

Mark Monaghan

Bass Technician

Mark is a NJ based musician and educator. As a graduate of Rutgers University, he holds degrees in both music education (percussion focus) and psychology. Having worked with various scholastic percussion ensembles in New Jersey, Mark has also worked with various independent musical organizations such as The Santa Clara Vanguard (battery technician) and The Caballeros Drum and Bugle Corps (percussion/music coordinator). He has also worked with his alma mater, the Rutgers University Marching Scarlet Knights, since 2016. Mark would like to thank his teachers for their immeasurable impact on his musical career as well as for their selflessness and energy: Joseph Tompkins, Kyle Zerna, Mike Truesdell, Javier Diaz, Todd Nichols, Paul/Sandi Rennick and Kevin Chaffinch.

Ryan Brodhead

Bass Technician

Ryan’s marching career started in 2012 with The Cadets2 Drum and Bugle Corps for their inaugural season and continued with them through the end of the 2013 and 2014 competitive seasons. During that time, Ryan performed with Cadets Winter Percussion for the 2014 and 2015 WGI seasons and then spent three years touring & performing with the 10-Time DCI Champions, The Cadets Drum & Bugle Corps (2015, 2016, 2017). Upon aging out, Ryan received the ‘Cadet of the Year’ award as a member of the 2017 Cadets Drumline. Ryan also spent three years in the Rutgers University Drumline and served as bass drum section leader for his last two years.

Ryan has taught multiple high school percussion programs in New Jersey and is currently the Percussion Caption Head & Battery Arranger for Madison High School. During the summer, Ryan is a battery instructor for the Hawthorne Caballeros Drum & Bugle Corps as well as The Cadets Drum & Bugle Corps. Ryan spent the 2019 and 2020 seasons teaching UP2, then spent the 2022 and 2023 seasons with UP World and can’t wait to keep the momentum going into 2024!

Outside of the marching arts, Ryan works in Lakewood, New Jersey as an IT Systems Administrator.

Tristan Shafran

Bass Technician

Tristan is an NJ based musician and educator. As a graduate of Rutgers University, he holds a degree in music education (woodwind focus). Having worked with various scholastic percussion ensembles in New Jersey, Tristan has also worked with independent musical organizations such as The Caballeros Drum and Bugle Corps (battery technician). He is also the band director for Weehawken High School. Tristan has been a part of multiple ensembles starting in high school. He eventually went on to march with the Crossmen ('19), Hawthorne Caballeros ('18,'21), and The Santa Clara Vanguard ('20-'21) Drum and Bugle Corps. He has also marched with United Percussion ('20-'21). Tristan was also a part of the Rutgers University drumline for 4 years and has been a member of the Giants "G-Line" for 2 seasons.

Although his time with the ensemble was short, he is eager and excited to give back to the family that gave him his age-out.

Stephen McCarrick

Bass Technician

Stephen McCarrick is excited to come back home to United and join the battery staff for the 2024 season! He began his marching career in 2013 at Upper Darby High School in southeast Pennsylvania, winning a gold medal in WGI Percussion Scholastic Open. Then, he began his independent marching career as a bass drummer in The Cadets2 Drum and Bugle Corps in 2016 and 2017, winning a DCA Championship and High Percussion Trophy in 2016, before continuing on to march Carolina Crown in 2018 and 2019. 

In WGI, Stephen marched United in 2017, 2018, and 2019, where he sharpened his skills and served as the section leader of the bass line during his final year. Then, he concluded his independent career at Rhythm X, where he marched in 2020 and 2022, earning a WGI Percussion Independent World Silver Medal and performing two independently composed bass drum etudes, “Where’s My Chair?” and “Condado”.

As a bass instructor, Stephen taught The Bushwackers Drum and Bugle Corps in 2021 and 2022. Stephen also taught the Ridley High School Marching Band as well as the Upper Darby High School Marching Band, and currently serves as a battery instructor and designer for Cherokee High School in South Jersey. Stephen graduated from Penn State University in 2020, where he majored in Energy Business and Finance, and was fortunate enough to squeeze in one season of Blue Band in 2019. He still performs today as a member of the Philadelphia Eagles drum line. 

Shannon Kelliher

Cymbal Technician

Shannon began her marching career at Hunterdon Central Regional High School in New Jersey.  She was a member of their Front Ensemble and was a Drum Major. In 2014 she began college at Rutgers University where she was first introduced to Drum Corps. She marched cymbals with the Rutgers University Drumline for two years and was section leader her second year. Shannon marched Cadets Winter Percussion for two years in 2015 and 2016 and was section leader in 2016. In the Summer of 2016, she marched in the Reading Buccaneers Drum and Bugle Corps cymbal line.

Shannon has been an educator for various programs in New Jersey including her high school alma mater, Ramsey High School, Old Bridge High School, Hopewell Valley Regional High School, and the Rutgers University Drumline. In addition to United Percussion, she currently works with Immaculata High School and the Hawthorne Caballeros.

Shannon began working with United Percussion in 2019 teaching cymbals for United Percussion 2 in their inaugural year. She has been teaching cymbals with the World Class Ensemble since the 2020 season.

Shannon is a graduate of Rutgers University with a BA in Criminal Justice and Sociology with a minor in Psychology.

Lauren Lorenzo

Cymbal Technician

Lauren is thrilled to be returning to the United Percussion World staff for the 2024 season! She started her career in the marching arts in 2012 at Freehold High School in New Jersey. In 2014, she joined the Bushwackers Drum and Bugle Corps cymbal line, and she has been a part of the corps every year since. Starting as a member, she later transitioned to staff where she continues to teach cymbals and battery visual. Besides the Bushwackers, she has also marched at Red Wave Indoor (2019), West Chester University (2019), and United Percussion World (2020, 2022). For the 2023 season, she was welcomed to the cymbal staff for the World team.

Aside from the Bushwackers and United Percussion, Lauren has also taught at various high schools in California, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, including Fred C. Beyer HS, Amador Valley HS, Upper Darby HS, Phoenixville Area HS, and Highland Regional HS.

Lauren received her Associate's in Music Education with a focus in percussion at Las Positas College in Livermore, CA, then continued her education in music at West Chester University. While her current job does not involve music, she's very happy to continue her passions being able to teach on the weekends accompanied by wonderful staff and members.

Dave Osworth

Front Ensemble Caption Head

Dave is excited to be returning as the Front Ensemble Caption Head. Dave has served various staff roles with United since the 2015 season. Dave’s marching experience includes United Percussion 2007-2010 and the Boston Crusaders 2009 and 2011. While with Boston in 2009, Dave was a member of the DCI I&E gold medalist Percussion Ensemble, playing “Affirmation” composed by Andrew Beall. During his time in the marching activity, Dave had the great fortune to study under: Andrew Beall, Omar Carmenates, Jerry Carpenter, Steve Ballard, Brian Nozny, Mike Nevin, and Tyler Sammons. 

Dave has his B.S. and M.Ed. from Rutgers University. Dave currently lives in South Carolina where he is finishing his Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy. Dave is active in the marching activity and currently works with the Phantom Regiment Front Ensemble. Dave is a proud member of the Vic Firth Education Team.

Jay Rodriguez

Front Ensemble Manager

Jay is thrilled to be returning to United Percussion for the 2024 season. Jay has been on the United Percussion World front ensemble staff since the 2022 season. As a performer, Jay was a member of the Raiders Drum and Bugle Corps (2013), United Percussion (2014-2018), and Carolina Crown (2016-2019). Throughout his time in the activity, Jay has had the honor of learning from many influential educators including Steve Ballard, Ian Hale, Jim Ancona, Thom Hannum, Iain Moyer, Annie Chernow, Alex Kluttz, Marcus Neudigate, and Dave Osworth.

Jay has worked with various high school programs in the greater New Jersey area and is currently a Front Ensemble Technician at United Percussion, the Boston Crusaders, the University of Delaware, and the Hawthorne Caballeros. Jay is also a proud member of the Vic Firth Education Team. 

Outside of the marching arts. Jay has his bachelor's degree in marketing from Suffolk University and currently works as a Project Manager/Digital Marketing Specialist for a Philadelphia based digital marketing agency. 

Garrett Davis

Front Ensemble Technician

Garrett Davis is a teacher and performing musician based out of the South Jersey area.  He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Performance from Rowan University and recently completed his Master’s Degree in Percussion Performance from Temple University.  During his academic internship at Temple University, Garrett facilitated percussion ensemble rehearsals and taught private lessons to young musicians in Philadelphia. Also over the course of his career at Temple University, Garrett received the Steve Weiss Scholarship and the Dean Emeritus Helen Laird Tribute Award.

During the fall and winter seasons, Garrett arranges for multiple marching ensembles in the local area.  Then during the summer, he either partakes in orchestral music festivals around the country like Texas Music Festival (TMF) and Ted Atkatz Percussion Seminar (TAPS) or educates members of the Carolina Crown Drum and Bugle Corps.  Currently, he is the Front Ensemble Caption Head for Rowan University’s Marching Band inaugural season.  As a local and previous member, Garrett is excited to start the 2024 indoor season off strong with energy and positivity. 

Nina Brian-Smith

Front Ensemble Technician

Nina Brian-Smith is a percussionist and educator who recently relocated to Philadelphia. This past Spring, Nina graduated from the University of Massachusetts Amherst where they completed Bachelor’s degrees in music and a Master’s degree in music education. While at UMass, Nina worked as a graduate teaching assistant for the UMass drum line and front ensemble under the direction of Thom Hannum and Ian Hale. Nina’s career in the marching arts as both a performer and student leader includes the Boston Crusaders Front Ensemble (2016-2021) and the UMass Front Ensemble (2017-2020). Currently, Nina works as a front ensemble technician at the Boston Crusaders and Widener University under the direction of Dr. Iain Moyer. Although Nina is new to WGI, she is incredibly excited to be joining the team at United!

Nate Gittelman

Front Ensemble Technician

Nate Gittelman is honored and excited to be invited back to United Percussion as a Front Ensemble Technician for the 2023-24 season. Nate is a drummer, percussionist and educator from southeastern Pennsylvania. His marching experience includes playing drum set for United Percussion (2018, 2021) and marching snare with the West Chester University Golden Rams Marching Band (2017, 2018). Nate earned his Bachelor’s degree in percussion performance from West Chester University. While there, he performed as a section percussionist in the university’s top symphonic ensemble; was a featured soloist in the WCU Percussion Ensemble; and held the drum set chair in the Criterions Jazz Ensemble – the nation’s oldest accredited college jazz band – for three years.

Nate has accompanied the Philadelphia Chorus and the Bach Choir of Bethlehem, and was invited to the live audition round for the United States Air Force Academy Premiere Band. Currently, Nate teaches drums and percussion privately through Earth Song Creative Arts in Spring City, PA, and serves as Front Ensemble Caption Head at Marple Newtown High School. He is also actively recording and performing with his Philadelphia-based bands: Chasing Straights, Birds? and Dear Season.

Mike O’Leary

Front Ensemble Technician

Mike is a New Jersey based educator, musician, and arranger. He is currently a 4th and 5th grade instrumental music teacher in the Edison Public Schools district in Edison, New Jersey. 

Mike has worked with a numerous amount of marching bands located in New Jersey. Some of which include Sayreville War Memorial High School, J.P. Stevens High School, Bridgewater-Raritan High School, Old Bridge High School, and is currently the Percussion Caption Head at Edison High School. He also worked with a few local all aged drum corps such as the Bushwackers DBC and the Hawthorne Caballeros DBC.

Mike holds a bachelor’s degree in Music Education with a concentration in percussion from Rutgers University, where he studied with Joe Tompkins, Javier Diaz, Mike Truesdell, Ian Sullivan, and Kyle Zerna. Mike was also performer with the Bushwackers Drum and Bugle Corps from 2015-2019, Imperial Dynasty in 2018, United Percussion in 2018 & 2021, and Carolina Crown in 2018.

Andy Pham

Front Ensemble Technician

Andy Pham is a Front Ensemble Educator based in New Jersey, and a Computer Science Major at Rowan University. He started his marching career at Upper Darby High School in Upper Darby, PA from 2015-2019. He also went on to perform with Cadets2 in 2017 and 2018, United Percussion in 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, and lastly The Cadets in 2022. 

Andy has taught for 3 years at Deptford High School, going onto his 3 year at Highland Regional High School, and has taught at the Caballeros over the summer. Andy is excited to come back as an educator and as a United Alumni! 

Joe Tremper

Front Ensemble Technician

Joe is a performer, educator, and composer based out of Newark, DE. Originally from Tampa, FL, Joe earned his undergraduate degrees in Chemical Engineering and Music Studies from the University of South Florida. This fall, Joe began working on his Masters in Percussion Performance at the University of Delaware. As a part of his teaching assistantship, Joe works under the direct supervision of Jim Ancona to teach the University of Delaware marching percussion section. In the spring, he assists in coordinating and running the athletic pep bands.

As a world-class performer, Joe spent two competitive seasons over three years with the Boston Crusaders, as well as four seasons with Infinity Percussion. As a solo and chamber musician, he has received several awards and been featured on chamber tours, concerto competitions, and more. Joe is very much looking forward to joining the United Percussion team!

Mark Willis

Choreographer

Mark Willis is a dance artist, teacher and choreographer from NYC. He began his marching career playing the trumpet with the Burlington City High School Blue Devils marching band (NJ). His love for Drum Corps led him to The Cadets where he became a member of the color guard, marching from 2007-2012. With The Cadets, Mark had the privilege of performing in Barack Obama’s 2009 Inauguration parade as well as winning a DCI World Championship in 2011. In addition to Drum Corps, he performed with WGI Independent World Finalist Alter Ego Winter guard in 2009 and 2011. Over the years, Mark has taught and choreographed for The Cadets, Alter Ego Winter guard, Q Winter guard, Fusion Winter guard, AMP Winter guard, The Hurricanes Drum and Bugle Corps., as well as high schools in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Florida. 

In dance, Mark has graced both national and international stages as a principal dancer with the José Limón Dance Company and WHITE WAVE Dance Company, performing at renowned venues such as the Lincoln Center, The Kennedy Center, Jacob's Pillow, The Joyce Theatre, and Asia Cultural Center (South Korea). He received his B.F.A. in Dance at Montclair State University, under the direction of Lori Katterhenry. Mark has had the pleasure of working with artists such as Bill T. Jones, Yin Yue, Francesca Harper as well as companies BARKIN/SELISSEN Project, Douglas Dunn and Dancers, ARCOS Dance, among others. Mr. Willis has taught and performed throughout North America, South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. His teaching credits include The José Limón Dance Foundation, Montclair State University, Gibney Dance, Broadway Dance Center, Peridance Center, Seoul Tanz Studio and more. His other creative endeavours include composing, singing, and playing the trumpet.

Heather Graham

Visual Consultant

Originally from New Berlin, WI, Heather Graham currently resides in Miamisburg, Ohio. Heather has been involved in the marching arts since the age of three, beginning with a successful career in baton twirling and rhythmic gymnastics. Heather was recruited by her high school guard at the age of 12 and has since been performing in the color guard activity. While continuing to be a consistent member in the activity, she graduated from the University of Milwaukee with a degree in Communications and a minor in biology.

Heather is a proud alumni of drum corps, performing in 2010 with Phantom Regiment, and in 2011 and 2012 with Carolina Crown. She marched five years with New Berlin Eisenhower HS, six seasons with Velocity Winter Guard, and five seasons with the Pride of Cincinnati 2013-2017. 

Heather currently serves as the Colorguard Director for Miamisburg High School and Choreography for the University of Cincinnati. She has instructed various marching programs across the Midwest, including Eisenhower HS, Franklin HS, Friendswood HS, Marcus HS, Miami University, Northmont HS, Sycamore HS, Troy HS, Westerville HS, Shadow DBC, Origins, Virtual Drum and Bugle Corps, Calgary Stampede, INspire, as well as the 2016 Carolina Crown.

Currently, Heather is a designer/choreographer and head technician for the Boston Crusaders Drum and Bugle Corps and has served in this capacity for the past three seasons. 

Lauryn Heller

Visual Consultant

Lauryn Heller is looking forward to her 4th season with United Percussion! Lauryn has experienced the world of marching arts from a very young age, particularly because of her mother’s influence. She attributes much of her success to her 8 years performing with the WGI A class finalist Haddon Heights HS “High Voltage” color guard program and its exceptional staff (2002-2009). After high school, Lauryn marched indoor color guard with The Light Brigade (2010), Alter Ego (2011, 2012), and The Black Watch (2014, 2016). Additionally Lauryn marched as a color guard performer with The Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps. (2008-2013). 

Lauryn’s creative and instructional experience includes Haddon Heights HS (2010 - Present), Washington Township HS (2011 - 2019), Surge Independent (2016 - Present), The Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps (2014, 2015), The Black Watch (2017, 2018, 2020), Hatboro Horsham Indoor Percussion Ensemble (2019 - Present), United Percussion (2017 - Present), Bushwackers Drum Corps (2016 - Present), Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps (2016 - Present), and other programs in the tri-state area. 

In almost every aspect of her life, Lauryn chooses to dedicate her time and efforts to the growth and support of the youth. She has earned an Associate’s degree in social services from Gloucester County College and a Bachelor’s degree in psychology from Rowan University. By day, Lauryn is a kindergarten aftercare teacher at an elementary school. On nights and weekends, she is working with multiple marching arts organizations. Lauryn is looking forward to an exciting season of teamwork, growth, and new memories!

Brad Donoris

Visual Caption Head/Supervisor

Brad has been an active educator and visual designer of the marching arts for over 20 years. His performance experience includes The Crossmen Drum and Bugle Corps (1993-1994), and the Santa Clara Vanguard (1995). He has been involved with many independent groups over the years, including the Jersey Surf Drum and Bugle Corps, Lehigh Valley Knights, Teal Sound, Crossmen, 7th Regiment, and the Boston Crusaders. Currently, he is a consultant for Q Winter Guard, (WGI IO Finalist 2016, 2017), and on the visual team at the Blue Stars Drum & Bugle Corps (2017-Present).

In addition to working with independent groups, Brad has worked with many scholastic ensembles, most recently with visual instruction at King Philip H.S. from Wrentham, MA. Currently, he is the visual designer for Pecos H.S. from Pecos, TX, and Rancocas Valley Regional H.S. from Mt. Holly, NJ.

Brad was involved with United Percussion in 2004, and from 2017 to present.

Tyler Propfe

Choreographer/Movement Specialist

Tyler currently resides in West Chester, PA where he is an elementary music educator. He is also a designer, choreographer, instructor, and drill writer in the mid-Atlantic.

Tyler’s marching career began with the Connecticut Hurricanes Drum & Bugle Corps from 2006 to 2015 playing both mellophone and trumpet, he served as horn sergeant in 2015. Tyler spent 2013 and 2014 playing mellophone with the Bluecoats Drum & Bugle Corps.

Tyler currently works with the Blue Stars Drum & Bugle Corps, is the program coordinator and drill designer for Downingtown East Winter Percussion, visual caption head for the Downingtown East High School Marching Band, and has been with United since 2019.

Tyler attended West Chester University where he received a dual degree in Music Education and Vocal Performance as a baritone. He previously worked with Jersey Surf in 2016 and 17, visual technician for Cadets2 in 2018, and was on the Academy visual staff from 2019 to 2023.