For years the Atlanta Drum Academy has provided children Pre K-12th Grade an outlet to learn and perform in an HBCU-style drumline. With experience teaching and performing in world class drumlines, Ian Fuller, Music Teacher at McKinley Elementary School, is looking to start a drumline for his elementary school students. Grant funds would purchase a classroom set of Pearl’s Junior Drumline instruments, including carriers, hearing protection, sticks, and cymbals. The instruments could be used in the classroom and with an after school club. 

This project would provide McKinley students an outlet to create music and develop social skills while enhancing their musicianship and offering opportunities to perform for the student body and school community.  Outside of musical skills, playing in an ensemble like a drumline teaches people of all ages invaluable social skills that aren’t always a given in their day-to-day life. Teamwork, awareness, responsibility, all different ways to collaborate with others and build deep relationships. 

This project could also be a start to developing a stronger percussion program within the Beaverton School District - it would teach students skills that transfer straight to a middle school band room and beyond.

Please consider supporting the McKinley Drumline!