Instructor of Percussion at Michigan State University, Yamaha Performing Artist
Bands of America
Percussion Division
Our CORE Teaching Principles: Technique, Musicianship, Teamwork, Performance
Ready to take your drumming skills to the next level? Whether you’re an experienced battery percussionist or just starting your journey, the Percussion Division, led by Division Coordinator Jon Weber (Michigan State University), offers a curriculum designed to help you achieve your individual goals. With a staff of expert educators and performers, we’ll guide you through exercises, music, and movement to help you grow as both a musician and a leader.
June 21-23, 2025 – Leadership Weekend
June 23-28, 2025 – Full Week Symposium
Ball State University, Muncie, IN
A Day in the Percussion Division
- Fitness – Start the day with a specialized warm-up routine designed for drummers by staff member, percussionist, and certified therapist Amanda Watson. These exercises help prevent back, arm, and wrist pain while preparing you for the day ahead.
- Fundamentals – Drumlines demand precision. We focus on technique, rhythmic accuracy, sound quality, listening skills, and balance to help you master the essentials.
- Differentiated Instruction – With at least two drumlines tailored to different experience levels, you’ll receive instruction that matches your skills. Whether you’re working on snare, tenor, or bass drum, our staff will help you achieve maximum growth.
- Marching and Movement – Learn percussion-specific marching techniques and practice drill for your performance pieces.
- Clinics – Explore a variety of topics through daily clinics, including tuning, breaking down music/rudiments, performance tips, and even trying out new percussion instruments with the Concert Band Division.
- Immersive Leadership Activities – Participate in leadership sessions that build growth, accountability, respect, and connections with your peers.
- Carolina Crown Experience – Spend time with the battery and staff of Carolina Crown Drum and Bugle Corps. Watch them demonstrate their skills, then join in and play alongside them for an unforgettable experience.
Why Choose Bands of America?
Experts
With a team of experienced percussion educators and a curriculum tailored for growth at all levels, the Percussion Division gives students the tools they need to succeed. Under the leadership of Jon Weber, you’ll develop your skills while learning from some of the best in the business.
The Fun Factor
This isn’t just drumming—it’s a one-of-a-kind experience! From learning cutting-edge techniques to learning from Carolina Crown, every day is packed with excitement, inspiration, and opportunities to connect with other percussionists who share your passion.
Note to Parents
We’re here to support your child’s growth as a musician and leader. At Bands of America’s Percussion Division, students gain hands-on training, build confidence, and connect with peers in a safe and inspiring environment. With expert instruction, a dedicated SWAG team, and a focus on wellness, your student will leave camp stronger, more skilled, and ready to thrive.
2025 Percussion Faculty
Jon Weber
Division Coordinator
Wayne Bovenschen
Associate Professor of Percussion at Oklahoma State University, Yamaha Performing Artist
Cameron Halls
Percussion Educator and Arranger
Alex Smith
Associate Professor of Percussion at University of Central Missouri
David Ware
Percussionist with Rhythm X, Software Engineer
Kate Weske
Tracy Wiggins
Assistant Director of Bands/Coordinator of Percussion Studies at the University of North Alabama
What are students saying about the Percussion Division?
I really liked it and would recommend it to other people because it was a beneficial experience for beginner experience at my instrument (marching bass drum).
I really liked the performance music, the staging, and how challenging the music was.
It is a very fun opportunity where you meet a lot of new people and learn a lot about the craft of being a percussionist.
The people you meet are amazing. You meet so many new people that help you crawl out of your shell.
You get so much help and experience from the staff that ultimately just drives you to push and be the best you can be.
The staff and faculty at this camp this year were fantastic. Even as a two-time returning camper, I learned so much that I can bring back to my home band.
This camp gives a great experience in learning and memorizing music. It also gives a look into DCI as well as pushing your social barriers, forcing you to make new friends.
At BOA Summer Camp, I learned a LOT about leading, friendship, and hard work. I could come here a thousand times and learn something new each and every time I came back.
No amount of media can do justice for how well this camp is in person, I improved my overall techniques a lot while also making new friends!
The BOA Summer Camp is an opportunity that’s unlike any other. You spend time with people who love band as much as you and you have the ability to learn and grow from those around you.
BOA Summer Camp has changed my outlook on current marching percussion techniques. I got to meet so many incredible students and staff. The things I learned are priceless.
It was an amazing experience that truly helped me with my drumming technique and practice etiquette. I would highly recommend going to this as well as meeting new people who also helped me learn more.
