Topeka High Drumline awaits Disney World appearance
Check out the Web-exclusive video performance
8:40 a.m. Wednesday, November 28, 2007
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It's all about the kids. Each individual participant's contribution is what makes the Topeka High Drumline excellent, said Sal Cruz, the choreographer and composer of the group.
"I love creating the stuff that we do, and putting it in front of them and us making it work together," said Cruz, a teacher for 14 years at Topeka High.
Without the right amount of bass or a cymbal at just the right time, the drumline would not sound as one.
Takes dedication and is quite the commitment for the kids and their parents and the staff. Perform at several community events each month. Their talents this year have earned them a place to perform at Walt Disney World's Epcot Center in Florida.
"It's a long bus ride, but the kids have a good time," Cruz said.
The drumline has been there before. Each year Cruz and the other staff members have to send in their application and tape.
"If you are good enough, then you get invited," he said. "It's wonderful. The kids have a good time."
Upcoming shows
Topeka High Drumline upcoming events:
- Sat., Dec. 1, 9:30 a.m., Holy Family's Craft Show, Sacred Heart Basement
- Tue., Dec. 11, 7:40 to 8:30 p.m., Topeka Performing Arts Center
- Jan. 17, 6 p.m., Living the Dream Drum Extravaganza, Washburn University
- Jan. 26, Roadrunners game, Kansas Expocentre
So other than the possibility of going to the Magic Kingdom on a school trip, what makes the Drumline tick?
Some students turn to it for personal growth.
"It's helped me with responsibility. It's helped me be more charismatic with stuff," says senior Tom Lindner.
And, it's also that family feeling and the memories they make together that keeps this drumline moving.
"You can be so close to everybody and be comfortable around everybody. It's probably what's the best thing about it," junior Laura Salvatore said.
Related link
Learn more about fine arts performances and events at Topeka High by going to the school's Web site.
Comments
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Nov. 28, 2007 at 11:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)fruzik (Fally Afani Ruzik)
AWESOME!!!!!!
When I was in high school I was a percussionist, but there were NO FEMALE DRUMMERS! It's so nice to see all the girls get out and ROCK!
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