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As the East Syracuse-Minoa (ESM) Winter Percussion Ensemble enters the final week of their season, all eyes are on the New York State Percussion Circuit Championships on March 30th. A powerhouse in the indoor percussion world, ESM is a three-time state champion, carrying a legacy of excellence that continues to thrive.
While the winter percussion season takes place opposite the marching band season, ESM has built an impressive reputation across both disciplines, earning eight state marching band titles, including their most recent championship in 2024. The winter ensemble has also competed at a high level on the national stage, previously medaling in WGI Scholastic Open Class Regionals—and they have big plans to return to more WGI Regionals in the future.
This year, the ensemble’s production is centered around Alfred, Lord Tennyson’s poem "The Brook", bringing the imagery of flowing water to life through music, movement, and design. The floor, uniform design, and even the fabric on the instruments have been carefully crafted to embody the show's theme, fully immersing audiences in the experience. To complete the aesthetic, the ensemble’s staff took things a step further, sporting “Babbling Brook” polos from Acorn Hills Clothing Company, tying the entire production together in a way that truly sets them apart.
Leading the charge is Acorn Hills Ambassador TJ James, a renowned percussion educator and performer. TJ brings a wealth of experience to the program and is proudly endorsed by Innovative Percussion sticks and mallets, ensuring that ESM’s performers are equipped with the best tools to succeed.
As they gear up for their championship performance, we want to wish TJ, the staff, and the entire ESM Percussion Ensemble the best of luck as they aim to add another title to their storied history.
#AcornHillsClothing #ESMPercussion #TheBrook #BabblingBrookPolos #StateChampionships