Kevin Goings, a legendary figure of music and marching education in our region, was a percussion instructor for the Mandarins from 1989-2005 and helped launch the Mandarins Entertainment unit, including the Sacramento Kings Drumline, in 2013. Always student-centered, Kevin prioritized the needs of corps members regardless of their level of experience and endeared himself to everyone with his trademark smile, sense of humor and humanity. Countless alumni speak of Kevin as the mentor and friend who made a huge difference in their lives, with many recalling their favorite “Kevinisms,” such as “It’s champs week, not chumps week!” or “I didn’t eat breakfast today because I’m hungry for some clean beats!” Kevin taught everyone to be grateful for the good stuff, and Kevin, we ARE grateful for you.
