Steve Yates, a professional whose dedication and belief in the vehicle of music education, has positioned himself as one of the nation's leading artists, teachers and designers. Believing in a positive educational environment, Steve strives to lead his students to be successful in the world of music.
Many of his students currently perform in nationally- and locally-based organizations, while others have become some of the most progressive and competively successful instructor/designers in the marching arena. Steve has had many students experience success as champions in DCI solo and ensemble competition on snare, tenor and mallets. Whether they choose to enter the area of performance, teaching, writing, or recording, his students tend to excel and broaden the activity.
Groups under Mr. Yates' guidance have traditionally set the bar for others to follow, establishing new standards in performance, artistry and education. The activity and its members are his concern. Encouraging, supporting and motivating students to grow through music and performance is the primary focus which enables Steve to prepare young people for the lessons of life, while opening doors of opportunity otherwise not considered.
Having performed as a member of the Anaheim Kingsmen as well as instructing groups such as the Santa Clara Vanguard, Blue Knights, Suncoast Sound and Kingsmen Drum and Bugle Corps, Steve has an extensive background on many levels. He has received guidance from some of the activity's most prestigious organizations and individuals. Yates is well known throughout the activity for his ability and profound impact on the marching percussion world. He is further known for his broad understanding of sound quality and enhancement of ensemble integrity through the use of electronics, amplification and sound reinforcement. He is considered an expert in the areas of midi, sampling, electronics and sound reinforcement. All of these positive traits are obvious in the programs in which he has an association.
As an instructor/designer, in the high school arena, Steve's schools have an impressive track record. Programs under his direction, including Mission Viejo (CA), Mt. Whitney (CA), La Habra (CA), Ponderosa (CO), Gateway (CO), Rangeview (CO), Arvada (CO), Douglas County (CO) and Overland High Schools, consistently achieve educational and performance-based excellence as a result of his participation. Their accomplishments include two world championship titles.
In addition to Steve's marching percussion experiences, he has been active for 36 years, and in high demand, as a drumset performer. Examples of this involvement include funk, jazz, rock, latin, swing, and groove bands. Meanwhile, Steve has maintained an active studio schedule, participating in numerous recordings.
Professionally, Mr. Yates designed, built, owned and operated Icehouse Studios in Denver, CO. He is now in the process of designing a new recording facility in Arizona. He continues to compose, mix and master music.
As a direct result of the experiences in Steve's career, he has served as a member of the W.G.I. Advisory Board, founding and board member of the Rocky Mountain Percussion Association and founder of the Blue Knights World Percussion Ensemble. Steve has had the pleasure of working with, and learning from, some of the activity's most recognized personalities and drum corps icons, such as Mr. Ralph Hardimon, Scott Johnson and Tom Float.
Currently, Steve Yates is endorsed by Innovative Percussion, Alternate Mode, Paiste, and Remo Inc.

No upcoming shows