University of South Carolina Drumline
Journalism 337 Photo Essay
Journalism 337 Photo Essay
For three years I was a part of the University of South Carolina Drumline, sometimes know colloquially as the WAD Squad. When I began playing with the group, there was a strong sense of community and fraternity among members, but not a lot of direction. Steve Wulff became our instructor as a graduate assistant and gave the group of talented percussionists the direction they needed to become a respectable part of the Mighty Sound of the Southeast.
Steve Wulff, instructor for the USC Drumline from 2008 until 2010, came from Michigan State University to complete his graduate degree at USC. Steve approached the deep traditions of USC's band with a fresh perspective, streamlining old cadences and updating traditional USC songs for the appropriate instrumentation.
Bassoonist Anna Wagoner chose to become a cymbal player to fulfill her marching band performance requirement of her music degree. (Above) Anna displays her distaste for early morning rehearsals.
Music major Vinny Talbert practices before marching band rehearsal for Drum Corps International auditions in the winter. Many members of the USC Drumline have performed at the highest level with DCI groups like Carolina Crown, Phantom Regiment, and the Madison Scouts.
Kevin Poelking (blue shirt, left) and roommate Eric Black (black shirt, right) hang out during a break in rehearsal. The relationships of USC Drumline members transcend the football field, leading to friendships, roommates, and even marriages.
D's Wings in Cayce, SC is a popular post-practice hang out of the USC Drumline. After 3 hour sectional rehearsals, the group eats, drinks, and makes merry on 40 cent wing night.
