Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dark Sky Percussion?

Sometimes it is easier for people who are not familiar with the indoor drumming activity to see an indoor group in action. By watching a clip of past DSP shows, it may give you a better idea of who we are and what we do.

Dark Sky Percussion is Phoenix Arizona's independent indoor percussion ensemble and is comprised of young percussionists ranging in age from 14 to 22. Young musicians come from all over Arizona to audition for a spot in the group, and if accepted, the members will rehearse in Phoenix almost every weekend between the months of November and April (not to mention also paying tuition to be in the group.) Why? Simple: To be apart of something great.

As many schools and programs all over the state and the country cut their funding in the arts, indoor percussion has become one of the most exciting and engaging media that is keeping youth education in the arts alive. Groups from all over the country compete against one another and in April, gather in Dayton, Ohio to battle for the title of the best. The sport contains only percussion equipment and involves high-energy, fast paced footwork whereby the members visually represent what is happening in the music while drumming. Sometimes it's easier to understand if you see DSP in action.

How many kids are in the group?

Between 30 and 35 members make up the group. In 2010, we had nearly twice that many audition.

What sort of music does the group play?

The group plays fresh and original music every year composed by Seth Woodard, written exclusively for the members who make the line. Melodies soar from the front ensemble, which includes marimbas, vibraphones, guitar, and an electronic synthesizer, while the battery lies down thick, intricate beats. The battery is comprised mainly of snare drums, tenor drums, bass drums, cymbals, and a drum-set. Collectively, every part of the ensemble contributes towards the final product that has made Dark Sky Percussion so popular.

Is this marching band?

Yes and no. Yes in the sense that it gives you an idea of what indoor percussion is, but similar to using figure skating to try and describe ice hockey.

No, there is no body checking in indoor percussion, but the musical athletes are moving around the floor so fast that if a collision were to occur (rarely happens), it would have the same effect. Indoor percussion is performed indoors (as the name indicates) typically in a gymnasium or in an arena. Each indoor percussion ensemble marches on a custom "floor" - a tarp, painted and designed to visually represent the show they are performing. The floor is roughly the size of a basketball court, and the groups use visual formations, similar to a marching band, to reflect the music and theme of the show. The front ensemble typically stays put for the entire show, though. Groups can use props, synthesized sound effects, and innovative body and instrument visuals to better communicate their show to the audience. The indoor percussion activity is truly as much a sport as it is an art, which is probably why it is so named: The Sport of the Arts.

This sounds like a big commitment. How do I know if this is for me?

Much goes into deciding if you are ready for the indoor percussion activity. This activity is mentally as challenging as it is musically and physically. This sport will teach you how to work with others, efficiently and effectively, and you will develop the work ethic it takes to achieve greatness, along with the discipline to see a job through to completion. If you enjoy music and physical activity, you should consider auditioning.

If you are even slightly interested in indoor percussion, we strongly encourage you to attend our audition process and our Chops-Shops. Chops-Shops are weekend clinics held in our off-season (May through October) where you can learn the DSP drumming style, get to know our staff and directors, and to experience the Dark Sky Percussion environment for yourself. This is a great opportunity to ask your burning questions and to develop your skills musically. The clinics are akin to a master class where you receive personal attention resulting in valuable advice for improving. You will also take away some knowledge of what it takes to be apart of a world-class indoor drumming organization.

The audition process held in November and December is another great opportunity to get a taste of indoor drumming, even if you are not completely sure about your commitment level yet. It simply presents you another great opportunity to get to know Dark Sky Percussion, to learn what it will take to become a member, and certainly not least of all for us to get to know you. We always like to remind young musicians that no matter your interest level in indoor percussion, the drumming world is at least one person better off if you decide to participate, and we hope you will. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to correspond with us at info@darkskypercussion.org

How much does it cost to be a member with DSP?

Our fees are adjusted every year based on our projected need. Ideally, we would like to charge our members nothing, but unfortunately the members provide the vast majority of our funding for the season. Each member pays tuition in the ballpark of $1000. This is only an estimate as our fees are largely based on our projected needs for the season. In 2010, the fees unfortunately had to increase to $1300, and will likely remain at that level for the 2011 season. For a more accurate quote on 2011 member fees, please check back with us in the summer and/or fall months later this year.

This is a lot of money! What exactly does all this money go towards?

Most of our funds go toward travel expenses, including several trips around the Phoenix area, a regional trip to California, and a trip to the World Championships in Dayton, Ohio.

One additional claim on our funds is that Dark Sky Percussion has grown in visibility and in reputation much faster than many expected, to the point that we currently are in need of our own equipment. It is a great step for us, albeit expensive. Travel and instruments are two of our greater expenses, but registration fees, uniforms, materials, sticks, drumheads, shoes, props, etc. all add up to be a fairly significant part of our budget as well. It should also be mentioned that the staff associated with DSP receive no compensation, so every dollar received goes towards the betterment of the organization and its marching members.

Will this interfere with Drum Corps?

Each potential member and his or her situation is handled a little differently. If the situation arises where you are accepted to march with both DSP and a summer drum corps, we are willing to work out a solution that satisfies both organizations. While you have many demands on your time, this matter should be addressed as soon as possible. Ultimately, you are responsible for deciding if you can handle the work-load in addition to your other responsibilities, and you are expected to perform at your highest caliber for DSP.