Green Thunder Percussion

Q: How do I become a member?
Attending one or both Chop Sessions provides an introduction to the musical approach for Green Thunder Percussion as well as opportunity to work with the staff. If you enjoy the experience, then make plans to attend one of the two audition dates, preferably the former.

Q: What kind of time commitment is involved?
GTP typically practices all day Saturday, with the occasional weekend camps. Those interested are encouraged to look at the calendar and realistically plan for the time commitment involved, balancing practice with academics and family time. Most scheduling conflicts can be worked out in advance with the director, usually if is of an academic nature (band concert, festival, audition, etc.). All performances are mandatory.

Q: How much are dues?
First-year member dues will be $950, which covers transportation, rehearsal facilities, performance entry fees, most food, show design,  and over 200 hours of instruction.  A large portion of this fee can be credited through our multiple fundraising projects throughout the season, and in years past, some members have gone as far as reducing their dues by half.  Returning members will receive a $50 discount each year they return.

Q: What types of fundraisers are available?
Most students use a combination of personal saving, parental support, and sponsorships. A fundraising team will help students contact corporate sponsors to sell add space for our home show, as well as our winter raffle ticket sales.

Q: What about school activities?
Academics come first and foremost. Green Thunder Percussion rehearses exclusively on the weekend for this purpose, so students will have to budget time wisely to allow enough time to complete their homework during the week and around rehearsal. If there are too many conflicts with the rehearsal schedule, students may want to explore other avenues of involvement with GTP, such as the private lesson program, before deciding if they want to get the full experience.

Q: Can I bring my friends?
Definitely! We find that students that come with a few friends get even more out of the experience. Of course you should plan to meet other percussionists from all over that are just as passionate as you, but having a few other people at your school to carpool, practice, and push to improve will only help everyone in the group. Spread the word!

Q: How do I explain this to my parents?
Green Thunder Percussion is an opportunity for young musicians in the Chicago area to meet and work with other students that are driven to push their musical experience and boundaries beyond what is offered in most conventional high school music programs. GTP strongly promotes attitudes of passion, diligence and teamwork, providing life long lessons in self-improvement.