Shadow Armada Drumline is based out of Oregon High School in Oregon, Wisconsin, though we count members from communities throughout the region. We are a marching percussion ensemble (battery and frontline) competing in the MACBDA summer circuit (Midwest US/Canada). We currently hold the honor of winning High Percussion the past three years back-to-back ('06, '07, '08) at MACBDA Championships. Our parent organization, Oregon Marching and Athletic Arts Programs (OMAAP) also houses Shadow Indoor Percussion, our winter drumline.
Our many goals as part of OMAAP (www.omaap.org) include providing members with an unforgettable life experience, developing leadership skills and a superior approach to work ethic, constantly challenging members' musical/rhythmic vocabularies, being aware of what the highest level of performance is in the marching idiom and towards it to continually strive, and playing as many h-hh-h-hhh-hot beats, licks and breaks as possible.
It is our belief that battery drumming as a percussive medium should be informed by the traditional rudimental canon as well as modern/integrated rudimental philosophy. Furthermore, that to be a complete, aware percussionist includes interest in and knowledge of orchestral techniques, world music, jazz/improvisation, rock, soul, punk, hiphop, electronic/sample-based idioms, and anything else that makes noise. The importance of groove, flow, vibe and hype cannot be overstated. We aim to stay progressive and come out fresh every year. We push ourselves to perform the most challenging, most dynamic, and most exciting music of which we are capable, with absolute clarity.
We believe that being a competent, responsible member of the drumline includes a desire to be well-versed in (and to actively pursue) the approaches/repertoire of the top ensembles in the activity (Blue Devils, Cavaliers, Bluecoats, Phantom Regiment, RCC, RhythmX, Blue Coats, Santa Clara, Individuals/PASIC soloists, et cetera) as well as striving on a daily basis to better oneself from a musical and personal standpoint.
We are one big family dedicated to drumming like crazy, kicking it together, and enjoying every bead of sweat. Why? It just feels good to love something this much. We have a whole lotta fun when hitting things well. We are very proud of what we do, how we do it, where we come from, and why we do it; so goes the Oregon tradition.
Auditions for the line occur every fall, and potential members from anywhere within driving distance of Oregon/Madison are welcome to inquire about the '09 Warm-Up book and audition requirements. Previous experience is not a requirement - a deep-rooted desire to work hard and be part of something extraordinary is. Contact [email protected] for details.
