Percussion is a collection of instruments that involves the use of sticks or beaters. Students studying percussion MUST learn both drums & keyboard mallet instruments. Piano experience is strongly recommended for percussionists! (Drum Set is NOT used in the Elementary Bands!) Percussion requires constant focus and concentration at very high levels all the time – much more so than ANY other band instrument. Students who have a difficult time focusing should NOT play percussion!

PROS – Does not involve “blowing”. Very important to the success of a band/orchestra.

CONS – Difficult to learn all of the different instruments (especially if no piano experience). Requires a lot of “musical independence”, since there is generally only one person playing each percussion instrument at a time (especially at more advanced levels). A lot of students play percussion, leading to more competition to get into advanced groups, youth orchestras, honor bands, etc.