A new beat will reverberate around campus when students return this fall. The Dutch Boom Drumline, led by senior lecturer of music Stan Dahl, allows students to put their percussive talents on display.
Officially recognized as a student organization in the spring, Dutch Boom provides another way for percussion players to practice their skills. But Dahl says the group is open to anyone. “Even if you do not have percussion experience, we want you to join. We will teach you,” Dahl said.
A drumline features the instruments included in the percussion section of a marching band, such as snare drums, tenors, bass drums and cymbals. Scheduled performances for Dutch Boom include athletic events and the Pella Tulip Time parade. The group will play both independently and with the Central College pep band during football games this fall.
Service is also part of Dutch Boom’s mission, and students will visit area schools to help with their marching band programs.
Senior Dante Vitullo IV, president of Dutch Boom, is excited about the new opportunity the group offers for students. “The drumline will bring a new musical presence to Central events, and it will bring energy to the students, hopefully encouraging them to attend events and support each other. This also opens up an opportunity for students to continue their passion for drumline after high school.”
While standalone drumlines are common at major universities, they have been found less frequently on smaller college campuses — though that is changing. Dahl said, “Drumlines are an essential part of the percussion world. It is becoming more popular, and students are looking for this type of experience. Dutch Boom is also exciting because we haven’t had a marching band at Central since the early ‘90s, and the drumline brings that sound back to campus.”
