Corin Uchuion (pronounced oo-KY-en) performed with Pacific Crest in 2014 and 2015, and she is returning for the 2016 season as one of the drum majors.
Tell us about your background and family.
I was born and raised in Ventura, California, alongside my older sister, Sherry, whom I credit for getting me involved in percussion.
What brought you to Pacific Crest?
I first learned about drum corps through my high school band director and close friends in the music program. A lot of my friends were really interested in another California corps, but I wanted to branch out from them, and there was something special about Pacific Crest. When I met a few members of PC from previous years, I instantly felt the sense of family in the corps, and instantly knew it was where I belonged.
How did the Pacific Crest experience impact your life?
Pacific Crest has completely changed my life over the past two years. My first summer with the corps was easily the hardest thing I’ve ever done. Through the experience, I not only became a better musician, but also a better person. I learned a lot about myself, and how to cope with challenges introduced to me, including depression that I struggled with from a young age. As a section leader of a mostly first-year section in 2015, my goal was to help create a close-knit bond where we all grew from each other, with the collective goal of reaching our full potential as a section and as individuals. The best part of my experience is the people I’ve met through this activity and all the memories we’ve made together — both good and bad, as they’ve all become stories to tell, and part of who we are and how we’re connected.
How do you think Pacific Crest will affect your future goals and plans?
Pacific Crest opened my eyes to my true passion and ability toward music, and has opened many doors to pursue this passion. I currently teach other young musicians, as well as study music in school; both opportunities I would not have had, if not for the Pacific Crest staff and organization as a whole.
Is there anything else you want to say about yourself, your life, the people who have most influenced and inspired you?
I would not be who I am today, or who I aspire to be in the next 5, 10, 20 years without every person and interaction I have made in this activity. I am especially grateful for the 2014 staff, including Stuart Pompel, Gabe Cobas, Andy Bill, and Dalia Berman for always pushing me and, more importantly, always believing in me. I am also infinitely thankful for all the close friends I’ve made through Pacific Crest, as they’re the ones who motivated me through each truck load, each block, and each day.
Is there something you’d like others to know about Pacific Crest?
Pacific Crest is a family and they take care of you; not always in the way you want, but in the way you need. Pacific Crest and “I-vii-I-vi-V” will mean something different to anyone you ask, but most importantly, it will always mean something to everyone.
