Darren VanDerpoel

BATTERY ARRANGER / SHOW DESIGN

Darren VanDerpoel resides in Chino Hills, CA and works as a music educator throughout Southern California. After graduating from Vista HS in 2005, he performed with Esperanza Drum and Bugle Corps, Pacific Crest Drum and Bugle Corps, Black Knights Indoor Percussion, Riverside Community College Marching Band, and RCC Indoor.   

Darren earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing Management from Cal Poly Pomona in 2013.  He currently serves as the co-director and performing member of Sidle Entertainment, who provide performing ensembles for special events and sports teams, such as the Los Angeles Kings and the Los Angeles Chargers.

Darren has been an active percussion instructor in Southern California since 2005, working with several high schools and independent groups.  In addition to Dark Sky, Darren currently works at Ayala HS and El Dorado HS.  Darren proudly uses Remo Drumheads, Zildjian Cymbals, Innovative Percussion Sticks and Mallets.

2025 will be Darren’s 8th season writing and instructing for Dark Sky.