Ascend Performing Arts, Inc.
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.
About Ascend Performing Arts, Inc.
Ascend Performing Arts (formerly operating under the Blue Knights name) is a Colorado‑based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that produces and supports competitive and educational performing‑arts ensembles, most notably the Blue Knights Drum & Bugle Corps and related percussion and winds ensembles.
The organization operates year‑round education programs, competitive ensembles, community events, and scholarship/fundraising initiatives to expand access to music performance and leadership development for youth and young adults.
In addition to touring and competition activity at the national level, Ascend hosts regional marching arts events and clinics designed to serve high school programs, community ensembles, and aspiring performers.
Notable achievements
Longstanding corps history
The Blue Knights organization has operated for multiple decades (origins in the late 1950s) and is one of the United States' established drum‑corps organizations now organized under Ascend Performing Arts.
Consistent national competition presence
Ascend's Blue Knights ensembles have been regular competitors in Drum Corps International and related circuits with semifinal and finals appearances in recent seasons (active competitive participation in 2023–2025).
Regional event & educational reach
Operates signature events and education initiatives (Drums Along the Rockies, Friendship Cup, BKXperience clinics) that bring hundreds of students and school programs together each season and support scholarships and community outreach.
At a glance
- Total assets
- $491K
- Annual revenue
- $2.8M
- Tax status
- 501(c)(3)Public charity
- EIN
- 84-6037716
- Location
- Aurora, CO
- Website
- ascendperformingarts.org
- On Mahalo since
- November 2025
Financial figures from the IRS Business Master File, the IRS’s registry of tax-exempt organizations.
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