Former vaudeville comedians and musicians, Fred and Faye Taylor, founded the Blue Knights in 1958. Recognized for innovation in visual design and contemporary programming, the Blue Knights have been a DCI World Championship finalist more than 20 times. Operating under Ascend Performing Arts, the organization also sponsors other ensembles including an award-winning indoor percussion ensemble and the first-ever NFL drumline, the Stampede. Ascend also conducts numerous events, educational clinics, and provides event entertainment worldwide.