DRUMLINE
The Michigan Drumline consists of around 40 members, varying by year. Truly “one big family,” the section is a combination of rigorous hard work and dedication mixed with a ton of fun!
Drumline leadership is made up of four rank leaders and one section leader.
Prospective students are encouraged to reach out to Prof. Chuck Ricotta to ask questions about auditioning or to learn more about their section and the ensemble. Please do not send inquiries about hiring the drumline to this email address. See our Hire the Band page for more information.
“Every moment with the drumline is one I want to remember, from coming up with show visuals to giving hugs when school gets stressful. The memories, experiences, and friends are why people should join the MMB. These are the people I want in my life for the rest of my life.”
— Kaitlyn Pelton, ‘22
WHAT IS THE DRUMLINE’s favorite…
part of band week?
We love our very first step show performance. The audition for drum line is a very long process, and during our summer rehearsals before band camp, we sometimes draw a few spectators when we practice outside. The first crowd we ever see, though, are band members after a long day of band camp, watching us do our full step show routine that we've been working on for months as the sun is just dipping below the horizon. It's a blast and honestly empowering to perform in front of a group of supportive fellow band members.
rehearsal tradition?
Before every rehearsal, the drumline marches from Revelli Hall to Elbel Field while playing our cadence sequence. It’s a great way to get into the rehearsal headspace and practice playing in unison with the group!
social activity?
We try to organize meals and little treat outings every now and then! I especially remember a much-deserved ice cream after a summer percussion rehearsal that everyone went to.
game day tradition?
We love our section tailgates, where our lovely section parents volunteer to provide us with warm food and snacks for the day after our game day rehearsal. The top tailgate was pancakes on an outdoor griddle.
