BY CHANTELLE EMERY
Before fall quarter 2009, the notion of forming a drumline was a work in progress.
Due to his inspiration from high school, growing up in a musical family and lacking a musical outlet when enrolling at SCAD for fall 2007, president and founder of the SCAD Drumline David Trayte, a fourth-year architecture major from Cleveland, Ohio, made it his mission to bring a drumline to SCAD.
He went out on a limb, deciding to pitch the idea to SCAD President Paula Wallace, and to his surprise, he was given the go-ahead, taking the next step, which he acknowledges, “The biggest task was finding people to make it happen.”
After finding out that there was interest, the search for instruments to use began, as percussion instruments aren’t usually something found lying around. Thanks to Purdue University in West Lafayette, Ind., the drumline was able to attain three snare drums, one set of tenors and four bass drums.
Although the equipment arrived for fall 2009, dedicated members still met for their weekly drum circle. At these Dyson field sessions, they would learn and harness their technique on binders and drum pads so that upon arrival of their instruments, they could hit the ground running.
At the start of fall quarter 2010, auditions were held to fill open positions, but if you aren’t on the drumline, don’t fret because you can still attend meetings as a general member.
Seeking to generate interest, support other departments and do special events and since the Atlanta QEP project kickoff, the drumline has really taken off. The drumline has also performed at orientation, during SCAD Style, the Masquerade Ball, SCAD Days, St Patrick’s Day and many admissions-related events.
This is a completely functional student organization with student instructors and an expanded line this year.
Trayte explained, “Technique is a major part of simulating one sound at performances, so working on your skills and further developing that is an integral part.”
It may look like a lot of fun, but they must abide by a strict schedule with at least one performance a weekend. Basic cadences are set for different events, however they like to work on new content to keep things fresh and always have an evergreen sound.
They are focusing on regrouping: getting the new members to catch up with all that the group has been doing, which shouldn’t be a difficult task because they are quick learners.
“Faculty adviser Cris Dykeman, director of Student Conduct, has been great,” according to Trayte, “She devotes time for performances and rehearsal organizations and all of this wouldn’t be possible without her.”
Auditions are open to anyone and everyone, but you must perform the audition packet in front of the panel of judges, so if you’re interested prepare for next fall.
It is a large commitment, but if you love drumming, the art of percussion and appreciate the opportunity to continue at college level, SCAD Drumline is for you.
