Step into beat with NSU’s Drumline

Jaime Valdez, sophomore computer science major, has always loved playing drums. He brought his passion to NSU and joined the NSU Drumline, a group on campus made up of snares, tenors, bass drums and cymbals, that performs at various university events.

Valdez plays the snare drum in the Drumline, while also being part of the Razor’s Edge Shark Talent program.

COURTESY OF REBECCA FAZIO. NSU’s drumline performs during Sharkapalooza.

“I’ve always had an interest in music, and drums are one part that I wanted to improve and get better. I also wanted to play the drums with other people,” Valdez said. “Who else to go to for that besides Drumline? I found a great place there.”

With 12 members, Drumline is open to any student interested in music. No audition is required. Most of the members had never played drums before joining.

Carlo Alberto Ricchi, adjunct faculty for the Department of Communication, Media, and the Arts, leads the Drumline program.

“A majority of our musicians in Drumline are former musicians, but they did not play drums before. Most of them were French horn and trombone players,” Ricchi said. “They just want to be a part of it, so as long as they want to be there and participate, they’re good to go.”

Every Monday, Drumline meets for a one-hour rehearsal. The group’s rehearsal begins with stretches in a circle to prepare the students for the weight of the drums. They then go into learning a new song or formation style.

“We do stretches because sometimes these drums can get a little hefty and carrying them for an hour or two hours is challenging. This is all part of the physical aspect of Drumline,” Ricchi said.

Ricchi said that despite every member of Drumline having a different background and plan for the future, they are connected by their passion for music.

“We have people from all backgrounds that just come together. They do this because they love music and there’s no ripping them away from the drums,” Ricchi said.

Valdez has made many fond memories with the rest of the players, especially when waiting to perform.

“We mess around, we laugh and try to get over the fact that we’re about to play in front of a bunch of people. We all make jokes to calm our nerves. I think those are some of the greatest memories,” Valdez said.

Drumline performed at Sharkapalooza in August and will be performing at the Nov. 6 Bleed Shark Blue Pep Rally and the Nov. 10 Homecoming Parade.