Sanderson/Millbrook
Winter Percussion
Precision • Performance • Teamwork
Winter Percussion is an exciting indoor performance ensemble that combines music, movement, visual performance, and competition into a fast-paced and rewarding winter season. Performing in gymnasiums instead of football fields, students develop advanced musical, rhythmic, and performance skills while working together as a highly focused ensemble.
Our ensemble participates in regional competitions throughout the winter season while continuing to grow the culture, teamwork, and excellence established during marching band season.
Whether you are an experienced percussionist or a student looking to try something completely new, Winter Percussion offers an incredible opportunity to grow as a performer and be part of a close-knit team.
2026–2027 Season Schedule Overview
Our Winter Percussion season begins in October and runs through early April
Interest Meeting
October 19, 2026
6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Newbie “Give It A Try” Clinics
November 9 & 10, 2026
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Registration Deadline
November 14, 2026
Percussion Camp Weekend
November 14–15, 2026
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Regular Rehearsals Begin
November 16, 2026
Competition Season
January – March 2027
AIA Championships
March 21, 2027
Winter Showcase
March 24, 2027
Frequently Asked Questions
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Winter Percussion is an indoor ensemble made up of:
Battery Percussion (snare, tenors, bass drum, cymbals)
Front Ensemble / Pit Percussion (marimba, vibraphone, auxiliary percussion, electronics)
The ensemble rehearses throughout the winter and spring months and performs at competitions hosted by regional circuits such as AIA and other local events.
Students learn:
Advanced rhythm and timing
Musicality and performance quality
Movement and choreography
Teamwork and accountability
Competitive performance preparation
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Winter Percussion is one of the best opportunities for students to continue growing after marching band season ends.
Students have the opportunity to:
Stay active and involved during the winter months
Continue performing with friends and teammates
Build confidence and performance skills
Learn leadership and accountability
Experience regional competitions and travel
Challenge themselves in a new environment
Become stronger overall musicians and performers
The smaller ensemble environment also allows students to receive more individualized instruction and develop skills at a faster pace.
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Winter Percussion is open to students of varying experience levels and backgrounds. This includes 8th Graders who will attend Sanderson HIgh School in the coming year.
This ensemble is a great fit for:
Percussion students wanting to expand their skills
Marching band students looking to stay involved
Wind players interested in trying something new
Students interested in rhythm, movement, and performance
Students looking for a competitive team environment
Beginners who are willing to learn and work hard
No Prior Experience Required
Students with no Percussion experience are encouraged to participate.
We especially encourage:
Percussionists and Wind instrument students
Marching band members
Students interested in movement and visual performance
Winter Percussion is an excellent way for wind players to:
Improve rhythm and timing
Build coordination and body awareness
Develop stronger performance skills
Gain a new appreciation for ensemble communication and musical responsibility
Many students discover entirely new strengths through Winter Percussion.
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If you answer “yes” to any of these, Winter Percussion may be a great fit:
I want to stay involved after marching band season
I enjoy performing and being part of a team
I want to challenge myself in a new way
I play a wind instrument but want to try percussion or visual performance
I have never done this before but want to learn
I enjoy music, movement, rhythm, or competition
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Weekly Rehearsals (Mid Nov- Mid Mar)
Mondays: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Wednesdays: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Camp Days / Saturday Rehearsals
Several Saturday camp rehearsals are scheduled throughout the season, typically from:
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Competition Saturdays
Competitions are generally held on Saturdays during January, February, and March.
Please note: January–March Saturday rehearsal and competition schedules are currently tentative until official competition registration and hosting schedules are finalized in November.
Students are expected to:
Arrive on time and fully prepared to start at rehearsal times
Attend all rehearsals and performances
Communicate conflicts early
Demonstrate commitment to the ensemble and team
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Winter Percussion participates in regional indoor percussion competitions throughout the season.
Typical performances include:
Local and regional AIA competitions
Community performances
Winter Showcase performances
Championship events
Competition days are often full-day events and may include travel throughout the region.
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Winter Percussion is supported heavily by parent volunteers and family involvement.
Volunteer opportunities may include:
Equipment transportation
Competition chaperones
Prop and floor assistance
Food and hospitality support
Truck loading/unloading
Fundraising support
A parent meeting will be held early in the season to discuss volunteer opportunities, communication, and travel logistics.
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Fairshare and payment details will be shared during the interest meeting and registration process. Fairshare typically ranges from $500 to $800 but may be above or below this range. The cost is highly driven by the numbers of participants with the cost being lower with a greater number.
Participation fees typically help cover:
Competition registration fees
Show design and music
Instructors
Equipment and materials
Transportation and logistics
Payment Schedule: (Tentative)
Nov 14th: $150 Deposit
Dec 15th: $150
Jan 15th: $150
Feb 15th: Final Balance
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Step 1
Attend the Winter Percussion Interest Meeting
Step 2
Participate in the “Give It A Try” Clinics
Step 3
Complete Registration by November 14
Complete The Online Registration Form and Contract (Link to Registration Form – Note for now “Coming October 24th”)
Submit Your Payment (Deposit) (Link to JotForm – Note for now “Coming October 24th”)
Step 4
Attend Camp Weekend and Rehearsals
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For questions about Winter Percussion, registration, or student participation, please contact the band staff through the Sanderson Band program communication channels.