Indiana Percussion Network
Indiana has a strong percussion network of students, educators and performers. A rich and active percussion community, supported by a strong marching band tradition, professional performance groups, and growing independent ensembles.
Indiana’s percussion scene is highly respected nationwide, with a healthy mix of:
Colleges and University programs across the state
Professional sports drumlines Pacers, Colts, High Octane (Indianapolis 500)
Elite scholastic and indoor percussion programs across the state
Rich collegiate programs
Nationally recognized independent WGI programs
Rhythm Discovery Center Museum, by the Percussive Arts Society
Whether you’re a student, educator, or performer, there are plenty of outlets to participate, teach, or watch high-level percussion across the state.
Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra
Hosts a full season of ticketed events and participates in several community performances.
Symphony on the Prairie at Connor Prairie is a seasonal performance schedule offered every summer in Indianapolis.
Indiana Pacers, Fever and Indy 500 Drumline (“High Octane Drumline”)
Performs at NBA, WNBA games, the Indy 500 and community events.
Known for high energy and tight visuals, blending hip-hop, street beats, and arena-style drumming.
Members are usually skilled marching percussionists, many with DCI or WGI experience.
Auditions are competitive and typically occur pre-season.
Indianapolis Colts Drumline (“The Herd”)
Performs at NFL home games and tailgates.
Combines traditional cadence-style drumming with fan interaction and high-energy visuals.
Often includes alumni from college lines, DCI, or WGI.
Members are paid and auditions are competitive and typically occur pre-season.
Other Performance Opportunities
Community Ensembles: Community bands/orchestras include several percussion opportunities.
DCI: Many high school and college age Indiana students march with corps from across the country.
Clinics & Festivals: PASIC (Percussive Arts Society International Convention): Happens annually in Indianapolis — it’s the largest percussion convention in the world. A major hub for networking, clinics, performances, and industry showcases and the IPA Clinic Day where both students and Educators participate.
Special Events: ensembles are formed to participate in a variety of ways around the community including the NFL Super Bowl.
Marching Band & Indoor Percussion Culture
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Indiana University (Bloomington)
World-class concert percussion studio and marching programs.
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Ball State University
Strong percussion studio and marching band.
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Purdue University
Known for its marching band and precision percussion section.
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Indiana State University
Host of IPA State Championships and known for its world percussion and steel drum band.
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Butler University
Strong Percussion studio, also known for their summer percussion camp held in June.
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University of Indianapolis
Has a strong music program
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Marian University
Has a strong music program
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Franklin College
Has a strong music program
Higher Education
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Indiana University (Bloomington)
World-class concert percussion studio and marching programs.
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Ball State University
Strong percussion studio and marching band.
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Purdue University
Known for its marching band and precision percussion section.
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Indiana State University
Host of IPA State Championships and known for its world percussion and steel drum band.
-
Butler University
Strong Percussion studio, also known for their summer percussion camp held in June.
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University of Indianapolis
Has a strong music program
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Marian University
Has a strong music program
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Franklin College
Has a strong music program