Name, hometown, corps, role this summer: My name is Giovanni De Torres from Union City, Calif., and I am the guard captain of the Blue Devils. Where do you go to school, and what extracurricular activities are you involved with there? I attend Cal Poly State University, San Luis Obispo. I am a memer of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, the Association of Computer Management, and the European-American Cultural Club, even though I am full Filipino.

Giovanni De Torres
Give us your full drum corps/marching music background, and how each position prepared you for the leadership role you're in this summer. Next season will be my fourth and last year with the Blue Devils. I started in 2001. Almost everything I know about color guard I learned from our color guard staff, who I have marched under since high school.^ The last good book I read: I haven't completed reading any books lately. The last great film I saw: The last great movie I've seen was "The Lord of The Rings: The Return of the King" Three CDs I'd want on a deserted island: Linkin Park, Michelle Branch and Justin Timberlake My favorite TV show: "Smallville" Favorite performers: I appreciate everyone that puts their heart into it. How do you "blow off steam?" I seclude myself, breathe and calm down. Why I march with the corps I am in: I love the talent, the people, the staff and the atmosphere. Was it always your goal to be in a leadership role? No, I wasn't expecting anything. How will you go about balancing the roles of leader and corpsmate? All I have to do is be myself and let my corpsmates know when I'm being serious or not.

What has been your formative drum corps moment? Every day in drum corps has been a formative moment. Best drum corps show ever: Blue Devils 2003: "The Phenomenon of Cool" What are you most looking forward to about the summer? I look forward to spinning with the people I love. Best thing about being a drum corps leader: Being proud to represent a wonderful and talented group of individuals. Worst thing about being a drum corps leader: Taking full responsibility for anything bad that may occur. During tour, the best part of the day is: Learning drill or work. During tour, the worst part of the day is: Doing chunks of the show in 100-degree weather. What do you want to be when your drum corps career is over? Let's find out.