GISH Show Choir Won’t Skip a Beat with New Drum Workstation

Grand Island Senior High’s Show Choir program has built a reputation on musical excellence, but the secret weapon behind their success is the unmatched professionalism and precision of their student-led stage transitions.

To elevate this competitive edge, dedicated GISH educators Abigail Bloom and Jesse LaBrie sought support from the Grand Island Public Schools (GIPS) Foundation. The Foundation answered the call, granting $2,000 toward a Pageantry Innovations DK-20 Drum Kit Workstation—a total game-changer for the percussionists.

Ms. Bloom and Mr. LaBrie expressed sincere gratitude for the grant, noting: 

"Our show choir program is incredibly grateful to have received a new drum cart through our district’s foundation grant program. This cart makes set-ups and teardowns much more efficient while allowing us to transport our drums smoothly and safely. It also helps improve the overall sound quality of the drums, enhancing our performances. Built with heavy-duty materials, this cart will support our program and serve our students for many years to come.  We are so appreciative of the GIPS Foundation for their ongoing support for Grand Island students!"

This equipment upgrade provides a safer, more professional way for 150 students to manage their gear. By streamlining transitions, students shift their focus from logistical scrambling to delivering high-quality performances. Josh Bergmeier, a member of the Dad Crew that helps students at competition, has seen the transformation firsthand.

“The drum cart is amazing and such a time saver,” Josh noted. “It allows us to set up the full drum set and transport it safely from the staging area to the stage, eliminating the need to carry each piece separately.”

Beyond a simple workstation, this investment fosters leadership. As students take ownership of their setup, they learn that backstage precision is just as vital as the music itself. This grant empowers the GISH Show Choir to lead with confidence, directly supporting the GIPS Foundation’s mission: encouraging students to dream big and achieve their own version of success.