By Nevaeh Porter, Arts Editor
On Sunday, August 9, 2026, the Aquinas Drumline began their season at the Arts and Music Center.
Drumline is a group on-campus composed of students who have an interest in participating and playing at home soccer games. There has been no experience needed to join the drumline, members just need to be able to attend drumline camp. This year drumline has seen quite a few returners as well as new membership from not only first year students and transfers, but also from older years whose interest in the group has peaked over time.
Ted Craig, Jacob Kamradt and Logan Long conversing during camp – Photo by Ashlyn Armock
When asked for an opinion on how drumline camp went, second year drumline member Rebecca MacKenzie said, “I think it went really well and was really productive and it was fun.”
“I wasn’t on drumline last year,” first year drumline member Reid May stated when asked the same question. “I joined to learn more about percussion, so when I graduate in Music Ed I can be a better teacher.”
Drumline is an inclusive and imperative part of the music program here at Aquinas. While welcoming new members, they also added to their staff, creating hope for an even stronger group
This year, along with coordinator Ted Craig, they have introduced instructor Jacob Kamradt and camp only bass drum instructor Logan Long. Craig has been the drumline coordinator for quite some time now, and he is also coordinator for the athletic band and conducts the concert band. Right before drumline camp started, Kamradt and Long were in Indianapolis, Ind. for the Drum Corps International Finals because they are both a part of the Northern Lights Drum Core, based in Grand Rapids.
As they both join the team, questions about the upcoming season arise. When asked about her thoughts and hopes for the upcoming season, MacKenzie replied with this, “I hope that we keep the family feeling between us while still being productive and getting things done.”
“I just hope that I can continue to grow as a musician and that everyone else can too,” May answered when asked the same question.
The Aquinas Drumline has their first performance of the season on Wednesday, Sept. 9 at 6 p.m. at the Men’s Soccer game against Goshen College.
Drumline members practicing during drumline camp – Photo by Ashlyn Armock
The Saint 