Want to learn more about WGI?
Mr. Peabody explains that WGI (Winter percussion) is a competitive musical ensemble similar to marching band, but it’s only the percussion section. The beat is laid down by battery (drums) and the melodies/sound effects are played by frontline (mallets, piano, and auxiliary percussion). They prepare a show, about 4 and a half minutes, for about 4-5 months and perform at various competitions. This year our show is “The constant state of going Nowhere” from BoxSix. They will also be performing at a day of percussion at some point in late March for the community.
I got some information about WGI from two former students who have been in it for three or four years: junior Gabriel Sepulveda and senior Melissa Gomez-Vazquez.
Sepulveda said that he has been doing WGI since his freshman year, so this is going to be his third year of doing WGI. He said WGI is fun because it is a chance to showcase their individual talents as percussionists. It is also a chance for them to strengthen some friendships and create new ones. Sepulveda is excited for their Minnesota regionals, where they will be traveling to Minneapolis and competing against other percussion groups.
Senior Melissa Gomez-Vazguez said that this is her fourth year of doing WGI. Gomez-Vazquez said WGI is more competitive than marching band. You’re surrounded by motivating people who always want to work their best. The groups are always positive, and the people are excited to go to the practices and more room to improve. The fact that its only percussion means their music is going to be harder too, and she is always ready for a challenge. She loves the show that they are doing this year. When they listened to it as a group, the bass splits sounded amazing. On the bassline, nothing is better than nailing a complicated split, and with the basses that they have. She knows that they can do it. Their instructors are very motivated as well. This year will be more challenging than previous years but it’s about having more fun than anything.
