The Winter Percussion season is just beginning, and members are prepared to make sure this season tops last. 

    “The preparation has just started, and it’s starting well, getting together with the group again is good, especially since we didn’t end our marching band season well and not how we wanted,” junior Jakub Resler said. 

    Rehearsals have already been scheduled, along with the bands’ plans for the season going forward. After a not as desirable season of marching, the band wants to make sure this season is better than ever. To do that, they have an extensive schedule to stick to. The group practices on Tuesdays and Thursdays and competes against schools all throughout the state through the Indiana Percussion Organization.

    “Percussion is a lot of work, but all of that work pays off, even though we may not want to always put in work, it always pays off in the end,” Resler said. 

    Though not having organized practices does not serve as an excuse to not practice. The students take it upon themselves to make sure they are prepared for the season ahead. 

     “I practice as much as I can when I get the chance. I try to practice show music and keep repping warmups and the show,” Resler said.

    Percussion is a lot of work for those participating, it requires multiple hours of work in and out of school to ensure everyone is competition ready.  

    “It is hard work being in percussion. With long practice days and longer comp days, it can be stressful, but in the end, it's worth it. At the end of the day, you won't remember the outcome, but you will remember the journey,” senior D’wan Ellington said.

    Fortunately for the band, they have recruited a bunch of new talent right for the job after auditions were held in November. Members of percussion have high hopes for what these new faces will bring to the table. 

    “Our season is off to a great start. We had tryouts for our high school and middle school ensembles with over 100 students showing up to the two sets of tryouts combined. We are excited for a strong group this year,” percussion director Zachary Himes said.

    With the new talent brought in and high hopes for how the season will turn out, band members are eager for the start of the season. To some, band and the music that comes with it holds special importance to them. 

    “I am very excited for what this season has to offer. I am also very excited for our music. I love the meaning behind our show this year,” senior Duyen Quang said.

    If anyone wishes to go and see the band’s progress in person, their first performance will take place on Jan. 25 at the Warren Township Guard and Percussion Community Day. 

    “The hype is real for the season, but I don't want to give any secrets away,” Himes said.