Drum line snares top awards at Dripping Springs contest

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MAC percussion students got an early start to Saturday morning. First, they practiced at McCallum, then they headed to Dripping Springs High School for the Thunder in the Hills drumline contest where McCallum took first place in its section (5A) and Best Tenor Line and Best Snare Line for 5A schools.

McCallum played “Planetarium” by Justin Hurwitz and several pieces by John Adams: “On the Great Divide,” “Wild Nights,” and “Short Ride in a Fast Machine.”

Prior to the announcement of the results, The Shield spoke to several students.

Freshman Nicholas Applewhite played the xylophone and crotales.

“I felt very good about my performance,” Applewhite said. “There were a couple parts that were a little shaky, but I think that in all, we have a pretty good chance.”

Sophomore Muriel Taylor-Adair described what playing today was like.

“It was exhilarating,” she said. “It’s like adrenaline goes through you, but it’s also really tiring, and you’re super nervous you’re going to mess up.”

Sophomore Chloe Andrews is a percussion section leader.

“I felt really happy,” Andrews said. “At first I was like super nervous, but eventually I just forgot about everyone.”

Even with the heat and anxiety, everyone was excited, had a great time, and was thrilled to win. “It was one of our best performances,” Taylor-Adair added.

Reporting and all competition photos by Kelsey Tasch. Trophy photo courtesy of Alejandro Serna.