Percussion
The MRHS “Pride of the West” Marching Band’s Percussion section has two parts. The Battery is the marching section, which includes snare, tenor and bass drums. The front ensemble, or “pit,” is the stationary section at the front of the field, which includes marimbas, xylophones, timpani, electronic instruments, gongs and chimes – in other words, any instruments that are too heavy to carry on the marching field.
Percussion “Spring Training” begins in April, with rehearsals and percussion “camps” throughout the summer. The “Pride of the West” employs professional instructors to teach percussion techniques for all sections.
During concert season, percussionists play in the Symphonic Band, Concert Band, Wind Ensemble and Percussion Ensemble. Percussionists are also used in the Jazz Bands and Orchestra.