Whether you’re hearing the thunder of a bass drum line, the intricate movement of tenor drums, or the unmistakable crack of a well-tuned snare, drum lines bring unmatched energy and precision to any performance. This month’s theme explores several key aspects of percussion writing and performance, from arranging for different sections of the battery to understanding the unique sound of percussion-only drum corps ensembles.

Writing for the Tenor Line

Tenor drums, often called quads or quints, provide one of the most melodic voices within the battery. Unlike the snare drum, tenor players perform across multiple drums, allowing composers to create sweeping patterns, melodic contours, and visually exciting stick movements.

When writing for tenors, think beyond simple rhythmic accompaniment. Effective parts use the different drum sizes to create tonal contrast while maintaining comfortable sticking patterns. Smooth movement around the drums not only sounds cleaner but also allows performers to execute passages with greater accuracy and confidence.

Balance technical difficulty with musical purpose. Every phrase should contribute to the overall sound of the ensemble while remaining practical for performers to play consistently during rehearsals and performances.

Building a Strong Bass Drum Line

The bass drum section serves as the rhythmic and tonal foundation of the drum line. Rather than every player performing identical rhythms, modern bass lines often divide rhythms among multiple drums. This “split part” approach creates a full rhythmic texture while highlighting each player’s contribution to the ensemble.

Successful bass drum writing considers:

• Natural hand movement and sticking.
• Logical note distribution between players.
• Consistent timing across the section.
• The tonal relationship between the different-sized drums.

When written effectively, the bass line becomes much more than a source of low-end power. It becomes a highly coordinated instrument that supports every section of the ensemble while adding its own musical character.

Tuning the Snare Drum

A great snare sound begins long before the first rehearsal. Proper tuning affects articulation, projection, and the overall character of the drum line.

Start by evenly tensioning the batter head to produce a consistent pitch around the drum. Then adjust the bottom, or snare-side, head to achieve the desired snare response. Finally, fine-tune the snare wires so they provide a crisp sound without excessive buzz.

The ideal tuning depends on the style of music. A marching ensemble may favor a bright, articulate sound with higher tension, while an indoor or concert setting may call for a warmer, more controlled tone. Regardless of the style, consistency across every snare drum helps create a unified sound.

The Power of a Drum Corps Ensemble

One of the most exciting percussion formats is a drum corps-style ensemble made up almost entirely of percussion instruments. These groups demonstrate that rhythm alone can create compelling and expressive musical performances.

A typical percussion ensemble of this style combines:

• Snare drums for precision and articulation.
• Tenor drums for melodic movement and texture.
• Bass drums for depth and rhythmic foundation.
• A front ensemble (pit) featuring marimba, xylophone, and timpani to provide harmonic color, melodic content, and expanded musical expression.

Without brass or woodwinds, every musical idea must come from the percussion section. Dynamics, phrasing, timbre, and rhythmic interplay become the primary storytelling tools. The result is a performance that is both visually engaging and musically rich, showcasing the incredible versatility of percussion.

Just as important as musical ability is the discipline required to perform as one unit. Every member of the drum corps must stay in step, maintain a steady beat, and match the timing and movement of the entire line. A single performer who falls out of step or rushes the tempo can affect the precision of the entire ensemble. The heartbeat of the group depends on every player moving and performing together.

Beyond technical precision, drum corps performances are designed to entertain. Players often incorporate visual flourishes, including stick tricks, spins, crossovers, body movements, and choreographed gestures, to engage the audience while maintaining musical accuracy. These visual elements, combined with synchronized marching and powerful percussion, create the electrifying performances that have made drum corps a favorite among audiences for generations.

Bringing It All Together

Writing for a drum line is both an art and a science. Each section has its own role, technique, and musical voice, yet every performer contributes to a single, unified sound. Understanding how to write effectively for tenor and bass drums, learning the fundamentals of snare tuning, and appreciating the precision required in a drum corps ensemble all contribute to stronger performances and more engaging compositions.

Whether you’re a student learning your first cadence, a composer arranging for marching percussion, or an educator developing young musicians, exploring these concepts will deepen your appreciation for the craftsmanship behind every great drum line. Every beat, every tuning adjustment, every synchronized step, and every visual flourish contributes to the powerful performance that keeps audiences engaged from the first note to the final cadence.

What Students Discovered About 80s Pop Music

June’s Music Technology and Learning Lab theme took students back to the colorful world of 80s pop music. Students explored famous songs, iconic music videos, and recording techniques that helped define the decade. Along the way, they shared observations about the sounds, styles, and innovations that made 80s music unique.

The Sound of the 80s

Many students noticed the strong presence of guitars and drums throughout the music. Beatrice recognized guitars in most of the songs she heard. Bryn also enjoyed hearing guitars and drums throughout the playlist.

Several students described the music as upbeat and energetic. Sydney noted that the songs felt very upbeat. Bryn thought the music was fun to listen to.

Students also paid attention to the vocals. Haley noticed that many singers used soft voices. Liam heard a lot of high-pitched singing. Sydney described Whitney Houston’s voice as powerful.

Others focused on the structure of the songs. Ellie observed that the songs often began with an instrumental introduction before the singing started. Beatrice noticed long instrumental sections in some songs.

Creative Music Videos

Music videos made a strong impression on many students. Haley noticed that the videos often told stories. Beatrice also learned that storytelling played an important role in many music videos.

Several students enjoyed specific videos. Sebastian especially liked the creative video for “Take On Me.” He pointed out that it used comic-style drawings. Ben enjoyed “Take My Breath Away” because it featured Tom Cruise from Top Gun.

Students also noticed the performers. Freya liked seeing both dancing and singing in the videos. She also observed that viewers could often see the band performing.

Michael Jackson’s videos remained popular with students. Liam enjoyed watching the zombies sing and dance in “Thriller.” He described the song as scary but fun. Graham noted that “Thriller” is a very long music video.

Technology Changed Music

Students learned that new technology helped shape the sound of 80s music.

Aleksander explained that new technologies made music easier to produce and consume. He also learned that the rise of MTV changed how people experienced music. Fashion, style, and music videos became a larger part of popular culture.

Several students were fascinated by recording techniques. Graham learned that some recording styles were discovered by accident. Beatrice discovered that gated reverb, one of the decade’s signature drum sounds, was created accidentally.

Kiyomi explored the history of reverb effects. She learned that echo chambers once required dedicated physical spaces. She also discovered that the AMS digital reverb unit debuted in 1982 and that non-linear reverb created a sound that became louder before fading away.

Students connected these innovations to the music they heard. Sebastian described the music as very electric compared to classical music. Ellie also noticed an electronic quality in many of the songs.

Artists and Trends

Students recognized many famous artists from the decade. Beatrice already knew many of the songs and singers. Sebastian particularly enjoyed the songs by Michael Jackson.

Students also noticed trends that stretched beyond the music itself. Freya observed that many songs lasted three minutes or longer. She compared them to some modern songs that are much shorter.

Several students connected 80s music to modern culture. Ellie felt that many 80s trends are returning today. Jaylin described the decade as an important time for pop, hip hop, and rock music.

Looking Back at an Influential Decade

From creative music videos to groundbreaking recording techniques, students discovered many reasons why 80s pop music remains influential. They explored powerful vocals, memorable beats, innovative technology, and iconic performers.

Most importantly, they learned how music, technology, and culture worked together to create a sound that people still enjoy decades later.

The Sound of Celebration

Many Independence Day events begin with music that has become part of our national traditions.

Perhaps no composer represents American band music better than John Philip Sousa. His “The Stars and Stripes Forever” remains America’s official national march. Even today, its energetic rhythms and memorable melodies inspire concert bands around the world.

Other familiar classics include “The Star-Spangled Banner,” “America the Beautiful,” “God Bless America,” and “God Bless the U.S.A.” Together, these songs have become traditions at ceremonies, sporting events, and community celebrations.

As you listen, notice how each piece creates a different emotional atmosphere. Some inspire excitement, while others encourage quiet reflection. Great composers understand how melody, harmony, and rhythm shape our emotions.

Folk Music Tells America’s Story

Long before streaming playlists existed, people shared stories through folk music.

For example, “This Land Is Your Land,” “America,” and “Take Me Home, Country Roads” celebrate the people and places that make the United States unique. Rather than focusing on historical events, these songs paint musical pictures of rivers, mountains, highways, and hometowns.

Because folk music connects listeners through storytelling, it reminds us that every community has stories worth sharing.

Country Music Celebrates Home

Country music appears on many patriotic playlists, and for good reason.

Songs like “Chicken Fried,” “Home,” “Only in America,” and “American Saturday Night” celebrate family, friendships, and the places we call home. Instead of focusing on grand historical moments, they highlight everyday experiences that many listeners recognize.

Even if country music is new to you, its storytelling has influenced songwriters across countless genres.

Rock Music Brings Energy

Rock music contributes another voice to America’s musical landscape.

Songs such as “American Girl,” “Living in America,” “Born in the U.S.A.,” and “R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A.” capture different moments in American history and culture. While some celebrate youthful optimism, others encourage listeners to think more deeply about the experiences that shaped the country.

As a result, great music often asks thoughtful questions instead of offering simple answers.

Pop Music Keeps the Party Going

Of course, every celebration needs a few songs that get people smiling.

Modern favorites like “Party in the U.S.A.” and “Firework” have become Fourth of July staples. Although they were not written specifically for Independence Day, their upbeat energy makes them perfect for summer gatherings.

After all, pop music reminds us that celebrations should be fun as well as meaningful.

Explore Beyond Your Favorite Genre

One of the easiest ways to grow as a musician is to listen outside your comfort zone.

For instance, if you usually enjoy country music, try a concert march or a folk classic. Likewise, if pop is your favorite style, spend a few minutes listening to James Brown’s “Living in America.” Meanwhile, rock fans may discover a new appreciation for the precision and excitement of a Sousa march.

Every genre has something valuable to teach us. Whether it’s rhythm, melody, harmony, storytelling, improvisation, or performance, each style offers a different perspective on music.

The more styles you explore, the more musical ideas you’ll discover.

Create Your Own Musical Journey

This Independence Day, challenge yourself to build a playlist that includes a little of everything.

Consider adding:

• One patriotic march
• One folk song
• One country classic
• One rock anthem
• One soul or R&B favorite
• One pop hit
• One song you’ve never heard before

You might discover your next favorite song in a genre you never expected.

At Michelle Tuesday Music School, we encourage students to stay curious because every style has something to teach. By exploring new genres, you’ll become a more creative musician, a stronger performer, and a more thoughtful listener.

Happy Fourth of July, and happy listening!

Summer brings vacations, family visits, camps, and long weekends. It also brings a common question:

“What should I do with my make-up lessons?”

When my daughter was five, she thought a make-up lesson meant she got to wear makeup. We all had a good laugh when we figured out the misunderstanding.

Now, both of my children take lessons, and so do I. We regularly use make-up lessons to work around travel and other schedule changes.

Make-Up Lessons Give You Options

One of my favorite things about make-up lessons is their flexibility.

You can schedule extra lessons on your regular instrument. Some students enjoy meeting twice in one week to keep their momentum going.

You can also use make-up lessons to explore something different.

I normally take guitar lessons. Sometimes I use my make-up lessons for songwriting instead. On occasion, I even use my son’s extra drum lessons for songwriting. Other times, I use them to give my daughter additional voice lessons.

The choice is yours.

Try Something New

A make-up lesson can be a great opportunity to experiment.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to learn a different instrument? Curious about songwriting? Interested in improving your music theory skills?

A make-up lesson lets you test the waters before committing to a long-term plan.

You may discover a new musical passion. You may also find a skill that supports your primary instrument.

Summer Is the Perfect Time

Summer often gives students more flexibility in their schedules.

Without homework, sports, and school activities competing for attention, many students have extra time to practice. That makes summer an excellent season to explore something new.

A single make-up lesson could become the start of a new musical adventure.

Make Every Lesson Count

Life gets busy. Travel plans happen. Schedules change.

Make-up lessons help you stay on track while making the most of your music education. Whether you use them for extra practice, a different instrument, or a brand-new skill, they are a great way to keep learning.

If you’re planning summer travel, start thinking about your make-up lessons now. You might be surprised where they lead.

Exploring the Sounds of Afrobeats

This month, MTMS students explored Afrobeats in the Music Technology and Learning Lab.

Students noticed many similarities between the songs they heard. Several students mentioned drums, percussion, and steady beats. Others heard piano, electronic sounds, and changing vocal dynamics.

Many students described the music as calm, chill, and easy to listen to.

Wynn enjoyed the chorus in “Fall” by Davido. Sebastian noticed that the songs stayed in a comfortable vocal range. Nevaan thought the music sounded electronic, while Haley noticed similar percussion patterns across multiple songs.

Some students focused on the vocals. Freya noticed autotune in some songs. Shubham pointed out that one selection had no singing at all. Jaylin noticed that some songs used very few lyrics and relied more on the music itself.

Different Languages and Messages

Students quickly noticed that Afrobeats artists use more than one language.

Beatrice heard mostly English along with another language. Freya noticed simplified English mixed with other languages. Nevaan also pointed out the use of different languages.

Many students heard messages about faith, gratitude, and inspiration.

Freya, Elliana, and Shubham all noticed songs that mentioned God or Christianity. Sebastian remembered a song called “Toast” that focused on being thankful. Henry learned that Afrobeats is meant to inspire people.

Beatrice felt that the songs always carried a message and often sounded spiritual.

Learning About Afrobeats History

Students also explored where Afrobeats comes from and how it developed.

Several students learned that Afrobeats originated in Africa. Felix learned that the genre has existed for a long time but has only recently become popular in America. Penelope described the style as both popular and cool.

Sebastian learned that modern Afrobeats grew from a newer generation of artists and that the genre began in Nigeria.

Maddox learned about the different pop influences found within Afrobeats. Henry learned that the genre helps share African music and culture with listeners around the world.

Student Observations and Discoveries

Students noticed many interesting details during their exploration.

Elliana heard trumpet and guitar in some videos. Grayson remembered seeing concerts and dancing. Mila noticed similarities between some rhythms and beatboxing. Jaylin paid attention to the visuals that accompanied the songs.

One student already knew an Afrobeats artist. Maddox shared that he listens to Koffee outside of class.

Students also found some unexpected moments. Beatrice remembered a funny rhyme involving bananas and broccoli. Those small details helped make the listening activities memorable.

Bringing the World into the Lab

Music helps us learn about different cultures, languages, and experiences.

This month, students discovered new sounds while exploring a genre that continues to grow around the world. Through listening activities and history lessons, they learned how Afrobeats connects rhythm, storytelling, faith, and culture.

Most importantly, they listened with curious ears and shared thoughtful observations along the way.