The Drums - It's Not Just Loud Noise

Imagine a slow, pulsing beat, leading gently into the opening melodic phrases of a well defined and possibly popular tune. It might be classical, hip-hop, a jazz standard, or avant-garde. The tension and pace of the music increases rapidly for the next few seconds before breaking open with a full volume presentation of the snare drums, quads, and basses. Members of the ensemble rotate backdrop flats or unfurl banners that present the program theme. Music and colors whirl and blend together at a breakneck pace, challenging the audience to keep up with each change. Skilled hands traverse the keys of the mallet section, bouncing from note to note at a blinding speed.

Just as quickly the direction of the program changes toward a calming quiet, a contrast of what came before. Softness and variations in timbre highlight the key change. The theme shifts once more as each ensemble plays a showcase phrase, encouraging the audience to applaud. Subtlety and control are no less valued than speed and high volume. When the program nears it's pinnacle we know that what we have witnessed and participated in is nothing short of unique. The final phrasing challenges the audience to feel the experience internally and emotionally. Bodies are penetrated by deep, resonating vibrations. The last release of musical tension resounds in our ears, echoing off walls and ceilings, quickly fading to a breathtaking nothingness. Ensemble members stand frozen in position, stoic and unblinking, determined not to violate the silence. Applause!

What? You've never heard of such a thing? Truthfully, most of the nation hasn't either. Fear not citizens, there is still time to buy tickets and support high quality musicianship in your community.

Each winter, percussion enthusiasts eagerly anticipate in the start of the indoor competition season. Public school musicians break out all of the auxiliary equipment stored from the previous season, inspecting drum heads, adjusting vibe pedals, unwrapping new mallets and sticks, then begin tuning and tightening all manner of related paraphernalia.

Independent percussion organizations are also on the same mission. Tryouts are used to place members in a position that best utilizes their musical talents. Careful thought is given to who plays snare, who can manipulate the mallets over the quads, or which person can best fit with the bass drum ensemble. Marimba and vibe players, cymbal and auxiliary specialists, drum kit players, and rhythm guitar and bass personnel are each given a chance to showcase their talents.

Winter Percussion Line, (some call it Indoor Percussion Competition) is something that must be experienced, both in sight and sound, to be fully appreciated. The idea of listening to a gymnasium full of percussion players may seem foreign to most, even music enthusiasts. However, this is an event that is well worth viewing and experiencing at least once in your life. Once you've been there, you will never think of percussion performance in the same way . . . guaranteed.

The history of indoor percussion is a relatively short one. For more on that subject I would advise a visit to the Winter Guard International web site. You can also find links there for Color Guard information, as well as competition dates and video clips of recent and past shows. (A fast connection and high quality speaker system is highly recommended.) Participating groups find themselves competing in one of several classifications so that no ensemble is ever asked to compete outside it's skill/performance level.

Enthusiasm, physical skills, musicianship, and sportsmanship must all meld together in this venue. Individualism is rarely encouraged except for the occasional short solo. Teamwork and group participation is the priority, as well as a commitment to attendance and staying physically fit. (My son lost fifteen pound during his last season with the Blue Knights World ensemble.)

In a time when the evening news is filled with angry teens and latchkey kids getting into all manner of trouble, it's nice to know of a program that has a national reach and stellar reputation for bringing out the best in our youth. Most percussion ensembles allow participation at many different interest and skill levels. Some incorporate dancers, others incorporate artists for set and scenery. Above all, there is a very high level of parent participation in the sport. (Yes, I did say sport.) WGI refers to these competitions as "The Sport of the Arts".

Lend your support in whatever way you can. Encourage local businesses to sponsor drumlines or colorguards in your area. Most participating ensembles must acquire and/or maintain tens-of-thousands of dollars worth of instruments, floor coverings, and transportation vehicles/rental trucks. It's a very expensive operation. But aren't our kids worth it? See for yourself. Hurry! Regional competitions are happening now. Tickets for this year's national competition are already on sale.

Visit the web sites and find out how your school or community can get involved.