Devin Bretz Leads Us to the Future

Last summer, Devin Bretz jumped into the role of corps director quickly and naturally, becoming the great energy and motivational powerhouse in just the snap of his fingers. His original role for the 2024 season was as an Admin, things changed, and he stepped up, way up! That’s the kind of person he is.

"I believe the crucible of drum corps can make young performers better people, and that the unique and rare opportunity of participating in a DCI ensemble can inspire great things in individuals." - Devin

Devin is a Northwest based educator specializing in percussion. Bringing a diverse background to the position, Devin has instructed percussion sections at several high schools throughout Oregon and SW Washington. Devin is currently a percussion instructor for the University of Oregon Athletic Bands as well as an instructor at the Alan Keown Marching Percussion Camp. 

As a retail manager for 10 years at Cost Plus World Market, Devin also spent 5 years as a business manager for Specialized Advocacy before purchasing the company alongside his wife Michelle in 2018. 

"I feel privileged and excited to continue working with the Cascades to build a culture that focuses on the member experience and education." - Devin

He got his start in the marching arts as a student in Oregon, performed with the U of O marching band and began teaching drum lines while in attendance there. 

While he did not get involved with the Drum Corps activity until recently, first joining the admin team, then becoming tour manager before accepting the director role with the Cascades, he has been a fan and supporter of DCI and WGI over the years. Especially since close friends and family have been heavily involved throughout his life. 

Devin currently resides in Eugene Oregon where he and his wife, Michelle,  own Specialized Advocacy, a social services business specializing in community support for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Devin and Michelle love to travel and spend time with their three dogs, Theo, Cadence, and Ahsoka.

"I look forward to partnering with the Cascades educational and creative teams to bring the vision to the field for 2025 and beyond." - Devin

Devin is the very epitome of honor, grace and grit, and we are thrilled to have Devin lead us into our future.