OHS Winter Line

Winter Line is a an extracurricular percussion group. The instructors work with the students to develop a program that is based on precision marching choreography and a musical score produced only by the use of percussion instruments.

The program normally includes a 'front' ensemble' that contains the stationary instruments which can include marimbas, xylophones, vibes, keyboards, a drum set, bass guitars, other drums, chimes, bells, triangles, and a variety of other percussion instruments.

The 'drumline' or 'battery' consists of bass drums, snares and tenor drum sets. Those drums are carried and played by the battery while performing the music and movements designed by the instructors.

Most of the programs consist of three 'acts' that contribute to the overall theme of the performance. One of the acts showcases the front ensemble, one may showcase the battery, and the third is usually a powerful combination of both units.

Some of the competitions are sponsored by the Rocky Mountain Percussion Association (RMPA), and some are sponsored by Winter Guard International (WGI).

Practices are typically two evenings per week and Saturdays in the January to April timeframe. Winter line fees are used to help offset registration costs for the competitions and to help cover the cost of the instructors, the music and the props.