The Board of Directors is pleased to announce the addition of three (3) programs (Diamante Independent World Class Color Guard, Diamante Independent ‘A’ Color Guard and Riverside Independent Percussion) to the Mystikal Youth Arts Organization.

These three (3) programs will help strengthen the organization by offering performing opportunities during the drum corps’ off season.

Diamante Independent Color Guard began their competitive activities in 2006 under the direction of Mario Ramirez. Diamante quickly became one of Southern California’s “Power House” independent color guard in the Winter Guard International (WGI) and the Winter Guard Association Southern California (WGASC) circuits.  After three (3) years of competing in various regional and championships, Diamante was able to field two (2) ensembles (Diamante Independent World Class Color Guard and Diamante Independent ‘A’ Color Guard). After the 2008 indoor competitive season, Diamante’s top ensemble was promoted by WGI’s Advisory Committee to the highest division (Independent World). Visit www.diamantecg.com to read more about Diamante’s two ensembles.

Riverside Independent Percussion (RIP) was formed in 2009 under the direction of Steve Ordaz. RIP started with only one staff member and no sponsorships. The performing ensemble members consisted of the majority of high school musicians. The independent marching percussion ensemble provides a structured and positive learning environment for young musicians. The young musicians of the ensemble will discover that through dedication and hard work they can achieve success which promotes confidence in their own abilities. The Riverside Independent Percussion experience will help instill a sense of pride and the important values of dedication, discipline, commitment and achievement through teamwork which will be returned back into the various communities. Visit www.ripdrum.org to see more about this dynamic marching percussion ensemble.