Drumming students will march to a new beat this academic year, thanks to a donation of equipment from Government.Nearly 40 pieces of equipment, including snares, symbols and sticks, were yesterday handed over to the Bermuda National Drumline Academy, run by Dennis Parsons.The boost will help the music school continue with its goal of providing middle and high-school aged students with the skills to be part of a drum line and full marching band.Set up six years ago, the NDA just recently expanded its programme to include the internationally recognised Bermuda National Marching Band.The ultimate goal is to get students prepared to march here, in international competitions and events such as the televised Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York.Youth and Families Minister Glenn Blakeney said: “We have watched the development of the NDA through its local performances that were enhanced no doubt by the participation of their members in local camps with international instructors and in band camps overseas.“Their success is such that this year, they have restructured their organisation to incorporate a full scale marching band.”The NDA’s drum line programme has taught more than 60 young people, aged seven to 20, since its inception.Starting in the Hamilton Centre, it quickly outgrew that facility and has moved to the Berkeley Institute.School principal Michelle Simmons said she was “delighted” to see the successful collaboration continue with after school and weekend programmes.She said it was particularly important to encourage the Island’s young people to get involved with positive activities and took pride in seeing the Berkeley Marching Band showcase their skills at this year’s Heritage Day Parade.Mr Blakeney said he envisioned the programme would continue to “grow in stature and attract the best young talent in Bermuda”.The NDA will hold auditions at the Berkeley Institute from 10am until noon next Saturday, for students interested in joining the programme.A band camp takes place 22 through 26, where participants will learn customised drumming techniques, rudiments, back sticking, marching drills, dance formations, music reading and marching styles for competition.For more information contact Mr Parsons on 732-0116 or e-mail ndacademy2011@yahoo.com.