Women exist across all fields in the world of percussion, but they are rarely all in the same room. This panel discussion serves as a roundtable to discuss the experiences of women throughout the field of marching percussion, both during their time in the marching activity and in how these experiences have shaped their professional journeys. Each panelist speaks on the breadth of their experiences as women in percussion and how those experiences have led them to where they are today. With all of these perspectives in one place, this panel provides a unique opportunity for conversation and community building.

Female-identifying percussionists are vastly outnumbered by their male counterparts. Without a diverse collection of performers, we lose depth in the social and performance experience for audiences. This roundtable opens discussions about the difficulties and barriers women face in the marching arts, and how we can continue to bridge the gender gap to make the performing arts a safe and educational experience for all percussionists, regardless of identity. These ideas extend beyond the scope of the marching community, touching on larger themes present within the percussive community at large.

The panel will feature three front ensemble-oriented members and three battery-oriented members, covering all areas of a standard marching percussion section. These six panelists performed in different eras, instruments, and ensembles throughout their time in the marching arts and used their experiences to springboard into success in a range of careers, including composing, teaching, touring, and entrepreneurship.

Our goal with this panel discussion is to open the floor for sharing experiences, both positive and challenging, and how the six of us have persevered and continue to push boundaries, while working to inspire and motivate the next generation of young female percussionists.