As far as experience, I did MS and HS concert band. Section leader all four years of HS in both concert and marching band. Studied privately for four years with a Flordia State Percussion grad who did Pit in Boston Crusaders and Snare in Carolina Gold. I Was head drum set player in MS and HS jazz band. Yes, I’ve checked the websites for those schools I’ve listed. I have discussed these questions with my teacher. She tells me to ask the opinions of others, in particular, in forms like these.
I agree with everyone having strengths and weaknesses in different areas. That’s why I feel if a student has a snare solo, timpani solo, and some mallet scales, that’s better than them having nothing at all to showcase on keyboards. I know most state schools don’t like this philosophy, but private ones seem to.
Bigdjp, if you dont mind me asking, what school does your son go to? What’s he like/ dislike about majoring in percussion there?