Ascend Performing Arts

A nonprofit organization

Support the Next Generation of Musicians with Ascend Performing Arts

Home of the Blue Knights

 


At Ascend Performing Arts, you have the power to create a future where every young musician has the chance to thrive. Together, we can build a world where talent isn’t limited by financial barriers but is nurtured through world-class music education and performance opportunities.


Your support makes dreams a reality. Help a young artist take center stage!


The Challenge:                                                                                                                                                             

Right now many talented youth face an uphill battle, with a lack of resources and support standing in their way. But with your help, we can ensure they have the tools and opportunities to succeed. 

When you give, you stand with Ascend Performing Arts as we provide life-changing experiences for young performers—helping them build confidence, express their creativity, and find their voice. You become part of a community that lifts up the next generation of musicians, creating ripple effects that will benefit communities for years to come. Every gift you make empowers a young artist, transforming their musical abilities and future.


Your Impact: 

When you give to the Blue Knights, you become part of a transformational experience for our musicians. Your donation helps fund:   

  • Scholarships for underprivileged students  
  • Instruments and equipment for aspiring performers  
  • World-class instruction at our BKXperience clinics  
  • Travel and participation in national competitions   



Why Ascend Performing Arts?                                     

We’re more than just a drum corps. We’re a community.   

  • BKXperience Clinics: Empowering students with hands-on training from world-class instructors. 
  • Leadership Development: Building confidence and teamwork in young performers.  
  • Alumni Network: Connecting students to a lifelong network of support and opportunity.


      


"The Blue Knights shaped my life. I’m a better leader, musician, and person because of this program." 

– Raymond Blakeslee


Where Does Your Gift Go?  

Your donation supports multiple areas of our program, ensuring we continue to provide life-changing experiences for young musicians. Here’s how your contribution can make a difference: 

  • Student Scholarships: You can help students from diverse backgrounds access our programs, ensuring that financialMaya Washington 2024 Color Gaurd circumstances never stand in the way of their potential.
  • Instruments & Equipment: Your generosity provides our young performers with the high-quality instruments, uniforms, and equipment they need to excel.
  • Travel & Competition Costs: With your support, our musicians can travel to regional and national performances, giving them the opportunity to shine on the biggest stages and bring their talents to the world.
  • Education & Mentorship: Your gift helps fund expert instructors who offer personalized coaching and mentorship to every participant. Every dollar you give nurtures the next generation of leaders, musicians, and artists.


Our Credentials:  

  • 60+ Years of Empowering Young Musicians  
  • 3,500+ Alumni who have gone on to careers in music, leadership, and the arts  
  • GuideStar/Candid Gold Seal of Transparency
  • Endorsed by the Colorado Nonprofit Association  


Join Our Mission

Be part of something bigger. Please help us continue to provide life-changing experiences for young musicians. Every donation you make today brings us one step closer to a world where all young musicians can chase their dreams without financial barriers.


Leave A Legacy

Make a lasting impact through legacy giving. By including Ascend Performing Arts in your estate plans, you help future generations of young musicians thrive. Whether through a bequest, trust, or other planned gift, your generosity will ensure that the music plays on for years. To learn more about how you can leave a legacy fill out our legacy form.

Giving Activity

Mission

The mission of Ascend Performing Arts is to further the education and growth of young people through participation in high-caliber performing arts programs that promote teamwork and discipline, develop leadership skills, and enhance self-esteem.

Background Statement

Vanishing extracurricular activities are a growing concern in schools today. Ascend Performing Arts offers a vital outlet for music and dance enthusiasts, evolving since its 1958 inception as a drum and bugle corps. With diverse performing arts programs, educational outreach, multiple events, and entertaining groups, Ascend has adapted to meet the Blue Knights' and the community's needs.

In 2009, the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps, Inc. Board of Directors initiated a restructuring process to better reflect the organization's scope and impact. In 2010, they unveiled Ascend Performing Arts as the umbrella organization's new name. Today, Ascend offers two dynamic performance programs, hosts premier competitive events in two states, sponsors high school band competitions, and conducts hands-on educational clinics. Members gain technical skills, become proficient performers, and even enjoy all-expense-paid international trips as part of the Ascend Entertainment Team.

Ascend Performing Arts uses its unique programs, educational outreach, events, and entertainment groups to teach youth independence, responsibility, leadership, and teamwork, nurturing them into responsible contributors to their communities.

Organization Data

Summary

Organization name

Ascend Performing Arts

other names

APA, Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps

Year Established

1958

Tax id (EIN)

84-6037716

Category

Arts, Culture & Humanities

Organization Size

Large Organization

Address

3538 Peoria Street, Suite 500
Aurora, CO 80110

Mailing

3538 Peoria Street Suite 500
Aurora, CO 80010

Headquarters

3538 Peoria Street, Suite 500
Aurora, CO 80010

Other

3538 Peoria St Suite 500
Aurora, CO 80010

Service areas

Arapahoe County, CO, US

Phone

303-777-1937

Fax

303-777-9599

Social Media