The Arlington Indoor Percussion ensemble is a 25-40 member, extra-curricular, competitive percussion ensemble. The group consists of the marching percussion section and front ensemble section of a marching band or concert setting. Students combine elements of music performance, marching, and theater and perform advanced percussion arrangements in coordination with choreographed drill on a customized floor covering. This ensemble begins rehearsals in mid-November and then competes January through March.
The ensemble is a 12 time Atlantic Indoor Association (AIA) finalist and was awarded the AIA Gold Medal in the Percussion Scholastic A-Class in 2010, 2011 and 2014; and the AIA Silver Medal in 2009 and 2023. The ensemble was also a 2016 US Bands Indoor Regional Champion and is a multi-time WGI regional finalist.
Read the 2023 introductory letter
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Indoor Drumline?
Indoor Drumline combines elements of music performance, marching, and theater: Students work together to perform highly advanced percussion arrangements in coordination with choreographed drill on a customized floor covering. They then compete in gymnasiums with other performing groups.
Is percussion experience necessary?
No, percussion experience is not necessary; however, instrumental music experience is. Non-
percussionists are invited to be a part of the ensemble. The staff is looking for students with good attitudes, and openness to learning and trying new things.
Is marching experience necessary?
No. Marching experience is not necessary to be a part of the ensemble; however, marching experience is necessary to be considered for the marching component of the ensemble (the battery section). All those without marching experience are eligible for the front ensemble.
Who is eligible to participate?
We welcome students in grades 7-12 from all Arlington County Public Schools. However, student participation in the ensemble is dependent on enrollment in a full-credit music course at the student’s home school. Exceptions are only made for those students where there is not a course option for their instrument (synthesizer/piano, bass guitar).
What is the commitment like? When are rehearsals?
The season typically begins in early to mid-November and extends through end of March / early April. Rehearsals in November and December are twice per week in the evenings for 2.5 hours and include 1 to 2 Saturdays per month (Saturday rehearsals are typically longer than the week night rehearsals and are held in the morning).
Beginning in January, there are 3 rehearsals per week, (typically Monday, Thursday, and Saturday). We will compete in 3 to 4 area competitions plus Circuit Championships. These will generally take place on Saturdays; Championships this year is scheduled on a Sunday.
Is there a cost associated with participation?
Yes. Student dues will be determined by ensemble size and budget requirements. A full breakdown of how student dues are allocated will be available upon season start. In general, student dues go toward purchasing music, custom drill, custom uniforms, equipment/instruments, and transportation/travel.