By Sarah Boraas

A Wartburg College drumline soon will become a recognized student organization.

Alexander Valentine ’14, who has 11 years of drumline experience, is currently enlisting students.

“It has always been a real passion of mine to create a drumline at Wartburg College,” Valentine said. “I believe it could be a great hook for incoming students and another way for students to become active on campus.”

The drumline will consist of four snare drums, four bass drums, three cymbals and two sets of quads. The organization will be part of the pep band, but anyone can join the group.

“When I have mentioned the idea of a drumline to faculty or staff members, their eyes just light up,” said Julie Drewes ’90, drumline staff adviser who played in the percussion section during her days in the Wartburg Concert Band. “It’s something that will bring even more spirit to campus.”

Valentine said Wartburg College could become the only school in the Iowa Conference with a drumline, and one of the very few among Division III schools.

“We have the basic equipment, but still need faculty and student support,” Valentine said.

The drumline will practice at 7 p.m. on Mondays and Thursdays and is expected to debut during Homecoming week, playing at Kastle Kapers, the Homecoming parade and at the Homecoming football game. Depending on support, the drumline would also perform during the basketball season and possibly at summer parades and events.

“This organization is a great way to involve students who enjoy music but are not part of a campus music ensemble,” Drewes said.

The next auditions will be Monday, Sept. 17, in the Bachman Fine Arts Center lounge. Students will play a selection from the movie “Drumline.”
If you are interested in trying out, contact Alexander Valentine at alexander.valentine@wartburg.edu.