percussionist

Dylan, my oldest, has been interested in joining the school band and playing drums for quite a while.  He can often be found drumming on things with his hands, or making beatbox noises with his mouth, so percussion is a natural extension of his personality.  In our school system, band begins in 5th grade.  During the first few weeks of school, all 5th graders have to select either band, choir, or intervention (which we called "study hall" in my day). 

He was down to the wire on his decision and was going to choose intervention, because he was nervous about band concerts.  Jen and I hated to see him miss out on an opportunity to be involved in an extra curricular activity (our family is involved in very few), for which he has shown enthusiasm, because of a little stage fright. 

So, we made the decision for him.

We told him he had to join band for one year.  His reaction:  "Good.  I'm glad you made me.  I really wanted to, but I was just scared."

He starts with learning the bells in 5th and 6th grade.  He's really excited.

He has to carry his bells to and from school every day... only 22 pounds!

His practice drum pad

His bells