Phantom Regiment announced today that Rick Valenzuela will become its executive director effective Sept. 1.

“Rick has the exact skill set needed to take Phantom Regiment to the next level as a youth arts organization on a national scale,” said Tim Farrell, president of the board of directors. “His enthusiasm combined with the drive and talent shown by our creative, instructional and support staff is overwhelming. The future is, indeed, very bright for Phantom Regiment.”

The Regiment’s entire creative team (Dan Farrell, JD Shaw, Paul Rennick, Jamey Thompson and Adam Sage), the majority of which has been together since 2003, are returning and already planning for another competitive, powerful and exciting production for the 2007 season.

It also was announced that Pat Seidling’s contract as corps director will not be renewed. He’ll continue with the organization though the Phantom Regiment’s Fall Marching Band Festival on Oct. 7.

“Pat has been an asset to Phantom Regiment since joining the corps as tour manager in 2001,” Farrell said. “He’ll be missed both on a personal and professional level. We wish him the best in his future endeavors.”

Valenzuela, who was hired as director of development and special projects in November 2005, previously was corps director for Santa Clara Vanguard from 2000 to 2005. He has been involved with drum corps as a member, instructor and manager for more than 20 years. He lives with his wife and two children in Rockton, Ill.

Phantom Regiment, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2006, is a youth arts organization based in Rockford, Ill. It runs a high school marching band festival, drum major camp and snare drum camp. Its drum and bugle corps finished second at the world championships earlier this month.

For more information on Phantom Regiment or to contact Rick Valenzuela, e-mail [email protected] or call 815-226-2835.