Local & Community
Rancho Mirage Student Earns Spot in Elite Drum Corps, Seeks Community Support
For Rancho Mirage High School junior Andy Martinez, music has been a passion since the sixth grade.
Now, years of dedication and practice have earned him a coveted spot in one of the nation's premier marching music programs. But before he can take the field, Martinez and his family must overcome a significant financial hurdle.
Martinez recently earned a position as lead trumpet in the 2026 Gold Drum and Bugle Corps, a highly competitive marching music organization that tours and competes across the country. The opportunity represents the fulfillment of a dream years in the making.
While Andy can often be found behind a drum set playing along to his favorite metal songs, it was his trumpet skills that helped him stand out during the audition process.
The Rancho Mirage High School student first picked up an instrument in sixth grade and quickly developed a passion for music. Over the years, he spent countless hours practicing, watching videos of drum and bugle corps performances online, and honing his skills.
His parents say they have watched that passion grow with each passing year and are proud of the musician he has become.
Earning a spot in the corps, however, was only the beginning.
To participate in the program, Martinez must cover approximately $6,000 in fees. His family says the cost is more than they can manage on their own, prompting them to seek help from the community.
The family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help raise the necessary funds and ensure Andy can take advantage of the opportunity he has worked so hard to achieve. If you would like to donate, you can visit this link https://gofund.me/cb2b27b0a.
For Martinez, simply receiving an invitation to join the corps already feels like a major accomplishment. But he hopes the journey doesn't end with an acceptance letter.
Instead, he hopes to take the field with the Gold Drum and Bugle Corps next season, representing his community while pursuing a lifelong dream.
By: NBC Palm Springs
May 29, 2026
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