Michelle Ignacio spent her first and final year of drum corps with Pacific Crest in 2014. She performed in the color guard.
Tell us about your background and family:
My hometown is in Everett, Washington, and I have lived there my whole life. I have an older sister, Irene. She performed with Pacific Crest in 2013.
What brought you to Pacific Crest?
I was encouraged to audition for Pacific Crest by one of my good friends, Kristen Lipscomb, a four-year member. She introduced me to Pacific Crest in 2011 during her first season with the corps. My sister also urged me to audition.
How did the Pacific Crest experience impact your life?
Pacific Crest taught me the importance of teamwork. When it comes to working together on a huge project, I’ve found that teamwork is critical to your success.Pacific Crest also helped me discover my own personal courage as I strived to succeed as a performer. Along with courage came focus. I realized that I can accomplish much when applying my courage, drive, and focus. Finally, Pacific Crest is about taking personal responsibility and the positive effect that has on others around you.
I am currently a student at Olympic College studying to become an Ultrasound Technician. I do plan to perform my age-out year for Winterguard in 2016, and I teach at local high schools. I also work as a Nursing Assistant in an assisted living facility. My family and my boyfriend, Ryan Silva, encourage me to pursue my educational and performance goals. I have also been inspired by my past color guard instructors, especially my high school and Rhapsody Winterguard instructor, Jon Brown. I wouldn’t be the performer I am today without his teaching me that first day of color guard and the five years since.
Is there something you’d like others to know about Pacific Crest?
Everyone at Pacific Crest is caring and considerate. That includes the entire staff and the members. We treat one another like family, and I couldn’t have asked for a better drum corps experience.
