Mike Cernicek began his musical journey at the age of seven on a secondhand drum kit passed down from his sister. He has been passionate about percussion ever since, dedicating most of his life to the marching arts. His love for the activity began in 2009 at Francis Howell North High School, where he spent four years developing his skills alongside future Apollo staff members Katie Busby and Tommy Roam.

Since then, Mike has performed with and instructed several ensembles throughout the St. Louis area. He spent 14 years with Freedom Percussion—five years as a battery member and nine years as Bass Technician and Assistant Director. He has also spent time performing with Stikyard and has taught drumline at several local high schools, striving to strengthen the St. Louis percussion community and give back to the activity that has shaped his life.

Outside of percussion, Mike puts his business degree to work as a Sales Representative at Alro Steel. In his free time, he enjoys golfing, gaming, and spending time with his fiancée, Kristen, his stepson, Caleb, and their dog, Loki.

Mike is excited to continue sharing his passion for the marching arts with the next generation through Apollo.