"Contrasting Light" is based on an original composition for percussion ensemble by John King and Mike Coers. The front ensemble opens the show with driving rhythms and strong impacts until the battery takes center stage as a pair of guard members spin rifle. Attention is directed from section to section as guard members weave rolling panels throughout the staging area, exposing each marching instrument group as they play short features. After building to an intense battery percussion segment, the front ensemble takes over again to relax into a flowing, melodic moment. The show builds to a shimmering finish of silver and black silks accompanied by a full percussion wall of sound.
2010 Winter Percussion Staff
In addition to Asst. Band Director Catherine Maledy, this year's percussion ensemble benefits from additional staff members Rick Morrow and Dave Gronneberg. The percussion guard unit is led by director Brian Penny, with assistance from Liz Wohletz and Chris Putnam.
Rick Morrow serves as the battery technician for the 2010 Odessa Winter Percussion Ensemble. He is in his fourth year as a music education major at the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg. During his time at UCM, he has been a member of the Marching Mules and the University Wind Ensemble. Rick has worked with the drumlines of Clark County R-1 High School and Missouri Valley College. He has marched in the New York St. Patrick's Day Parade in 2003, the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California in 2004, Matt Blunt's inaugural parade in 2005, and the Indy 500 Parade in Indianapolis, Indiana in 2006. Rick was a member of the Missouri All-State Orchestra in 2005 and the Missouri All-State Band in 2006. Dave Gronneberg serves as a clinician and design consultant with the 2010 Odessa Winter Percussion Ensemble. He is currently a snare technician with Gateway Indoor Percussion and the Assistant Band Director at Grain Valley High School. Dave has also served as an arranger, clinician, designer, and educator for Lindbergh High School, Hillcrest High School, Washington High School, Kickapoo High School, and Missouri State University. During the summers of 2004 through 2006, he toured the country as a member of the Madison Scouts Drum & Bugle Corps.
The Odessa Winter Percussion Ensemble competes this year in Percussion Regional B class. This is a different class than previous years since it is a marching show vs a concert show. You can follow the progress of our 2010 Winter Percussion throughout the season at the following competitions: