ABOUT SUFUDU
In 1994, a group of percussionists formed an independent drumline called SuFuDu, just for the fun of it. Today, we're a select group of percussionists from the Quad State area.
Though the group was initially just a place for friends to play marching percussion, we've evolved into a unique performance experience firmly rooted in leadership development.
We don't just train students in marching percussion, we teach skills applicable to personal, educational and professional goals.
Our unique name, SuFuDu, alludes to home base- Sioux Falls, SD. Traveling outward from there, we entertained thousands in parades and special events across the Upper Midwest.
Our nine-member Board of Directors works diligently to support the organization year-round. Members actively develop their leadership skills in the ensemble and maintain positions on committees each year to direct the group.
MISSION, VISION, AND VALUES
Mission: SuFuDu actively recruits regional students who desire to develop leadership skills, interpersonal relationships, and their individual musicianship.
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Vision: Through the shared joy of music, SuFuDu invests in young people to build character, grow friendships, and demonstrate how to network and create community with the hope that the members will share these skills and bolster their home programs.
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Values: Growth, Encouragement, Joy, Practice, Respect.
HISTORY
In the 1994, a few drummers from the Sioux Falls area came up with an idea- bring together some talented musicians and create a new type of drumline.
They wouldn't play to turn a profit or win competitions, just to enjoy percussion and become better players.
The first few years were a little chaotic- we played at just about any event we could. Members chipped in to travel to Horse Days, Tea Pot Days, the Dutch Festival. We borrowed drums from O'Gorman High, until we could buy our own line.
And then 97's Lotta Funk tour put the line on the map, and performance requests came flooding in.
We kept growing.
Members got married, founded Sioux Falls businesses, and educated upcoming drumline members.
COVID forced us to cancel our 2020 performances, so we adjusted. We practiced individually and shared our progress virtually. We brought guest speakers in over Zoom. We met outdoors and practiced while socially distanced.
And we planned for the future.
Now we've passed our 30 year anniversary and we're still drumming up passion and energy around Sioux Falls. Come out and see for yourself!