Copyright MMIX
 
Stillwater Area High School
5701 Stillwater Blvd. N.
Stillwater, MN 55082

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Matt Wagner
Online Editor

It happened last year and once again, this year, the Percussion Ensemble class is in a position where it could be cut from the music program for next school year. Consisting of over 20 talented musicians, Percussion Ensemble is a self explained class. Performing various compositions using a wide variety of percussion instruments, the ensemble has been a unique feature of the music program, and is a unique opportunity to those who do not play a mainstream instrument in band.

"As percussionists we use all sorts of varieties of playing surfaces such as clocks, trash cans, and so much more. We cover a multitude of contrasting pieces throughout the year and each year’s overview is somewhat different," said senior Dylan Mason. "Every year new students are added as the class continues to grow. Students leave the class with new learned skills and a deeper understanding of percussion and the idea that you do not have to be a percussionist to join opens the door to all who have an interest."

The class is a full year long (two semesters) and serves not only as an educationally musical class, but for some, a place to converse and share the overall love music. The tightly-knit ensemble has strong feelings about the possible removal of the class.

"When Mr. Lindsay told us that percussion ensemble might get cut, our entire class was very angry," said Percussion Ensemble member Alli Wilmes. "I am willing to do whatever it takes to keep percussion ensemble a class, and I am sure that everyone else is too. Mr. Lindsay has worked very hard to build up this program."

Junior Joseph Melheim has been in the class for the past two years and has been enjoying every semester of it.

"It gives percussionists specific training that would not necessarily be developed or worked upon in regular band," said Melheim. "All together, I'd say that percussion ensemble is one of the best classes I take. There is no doubt that it is the most fun class of the day."

It seems that the real trouble in the class is not the issue of getting enough kids in the class, but having to audition and get kids into the class.

After talking with Principal Ryan Laager, the class is now set to run next year. "As one elective goes away, there are some other courses that have to run," said Laager. "There are a lot of complexities that go into the process. Nothing is final."
After many days of talking and disputing whether or not Percussion Ensemble will return, it is now relatively clear that the class will continue to be apart of the music program for another year.