The Lassen High School Drumline will take the stage for their highly anticipated annual Showcase and Baked Potato Dinner this evening, April 22nd, at 6:00. The community is invited to witness a high-octane, 30-minute performance that showcases the precision and power of these student-musicians. Attendees should be prepared for a loud, high-energy experience, though the boosters have thoughtfully ensured that earplugs will be provided at the door for everyone’s comfort.
Once the final beat drops, the evening transitions from a musical spectacle to a community feast. For $15 per person, guests can enjoy a massive baked potato dinner featuring a variety of hearty toppings, including pulled pork and ground beef.
The growth of the LHS Drumline is a testament to the dedication of its students and the vision of Music Teacher and Conductor Ben Wade. What began in 2018 as a small pep band club has transformed into a cornerstone of the school’s music program. Wade recalls the early days when he was simply trying to find a way to build the program, noting that notable drummers Andrew Deurksen and Chase Roby brought the prior experience necessary to help the club lift off the ground.
In the fall of 2020, administrators Morgan Nugent and Josh Blackburn took a leap of faith by officially approving the drumline as a class. While only seven students signed up initially, the program has exploded in just six years. It now boasts both JV and Varsity levels with more than 40 participating students—a number expected to climb past 50 in the coming year.
The drumline’s presence is felt far beyond the walls of the high school. They have become an integral part of local culture, performing at high school sporting events, assemblies, and even LCC playoff volleyball games.
This year, they set the tone for the community by kicking off the Little League Opening Day Parade and performing the national anthem. Their reputation has even reached the collegiate level, leading to invitations to perform at UNR basketball and football games, as well as a landmark trip to Disneyland in the spring of 2025.
As the program continues to expand its horizons, Wade emphasizes that community support remains the heartbeat of their success. Tonight’s event offers the perfect opportunity for Susanville residents to support these students as they represent the town both at home and on the road.
