In the past, many students have referred to us as “band geeks.” Most people think band is nerdy and lame. Well we think different: Not all the kids at SMHS get to leave school early to go to distant competitions and tournaments. Not everyone gets to travel to places like China and Italy. And that’s just a start- band is the only “team event” on campus that includes over 90 people, all on the field at once. Despite your musical capability, Mr. Armstrong will find the right instrument for you.

If you’re a drummer, like me, Luke will surely help you out. He is a beast on all of the drums and can perfect your technique and rhythm. Bass, snare, quads, and cymbals all make up the amazing battery. The second part to the drumline is the pit. Mallets, drums, bells, marimbas and other percussion instruments make up the pit. Laptops, sound systems, beat recorders, and other tech. equipment are all operated in the pit. Both battery and pit are combined to form a “gnarly” fusion of sound.

Regardless of the hard work spent to perfect the shows, the band and drumline especially love to party. All of us spend hours coming up with “ballin” cadences that we show to the school. On Friday football games, we leave last period early to march around the school with our drums. We bring I-pods and speakers onto the buses and play sweet music after our competitions. Even finals are fun with Americas Next Top Drummer. The drumline always welcomes new drummers.

Whether or not you play the snare or flute, mellophone or bass drum, the band is always looking to increase its size and talent. Band is a big commitment, but its way worth it in the end. With all of your help, we can be a bigger, better band and continue to represent San Marcos High School!

See you all next school year,

Justin Penn ‘12

Percussion

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