Drums in the Valley: local students attend ASU camp

ASU Photo The Adams State University Drumline Camp culminated in an afternoon concert on June 26.

ASU Percussion Program camp attracts quality students



ALAMOSA — Lined up and keeping the beat, 26 high school students attended the first Adams State University drumline camp on June 25 and 26.

James Doyle, Adams State percussion director, organized the event. “Marching percussion continues to grow in prominence and it is my goal to offer the finest opportunities for musical and personal growth to our current and future students.”

Students from Palmer, Air Academy, Littleton, Fountain Fort Carson, Rampart, Liberty, Pine Creek, Bayfield, Woodland Park and Monte Vista, experienced a Brazilian drumming workshop, two full days of marching percussion instruction, and drum set and steel pan band clinics.

“With the support of Yamaha, I organized this camp to attract some of the best percussion students in the state to the ASU campus,” Doyle said.

The students stayed on campus, ate in the campus dining hall, and experienced the Adams State environment.

“Any chance we have to host outstanding high school students and their directors on campus is a positive for everyone,” Doyle said.

“I believe ASU is a wonderful place and regardless of intended major, I hope all of the students who participated become part of our family.”

Drumline instructors included Doyle, along with headline clinician, Bret Kuhn, Drum Corps International legend and international percussion consultant; Eric Kruse, Denver and Colorado Springs marching percussion consultant; Bruce Anderson, Pikes Peak Community College percussion instructor and 2001 Adams State alumnus; and Jon Latta, Fort Lewis College director of percussion. Adams State students including David Noller, Jennifer Lombard, Josh Wohlrabe, Ben Paden, Hannah Liechty and Jon Colson assisted during the camp.