Marshall Cheatham created The Saints Drumline in 2003 as a means to keep youth engaged by giving them a new outlet. The group has grown from six kids beating a tune on picnic tables in the park, to a nonprofit organization with over 30 young musicians supported solely by parents, fundraising, and a few private donors. These musicians have been featured in many notable venues and average 30 performances a year.

Specifically, the Saints Drumline instructs youth in drumming techniques, music instruction and marching maneuvers. The Saints Drumline, in collaboration with CMHA, uses the Rosewind Community Center for music instruction twice a week. Each participant receives drum instruction by using drum pads and marching style drumsticks. The youth also learn how to read drum music, play various rudiments, instruction on sticking techniques and various rhythmic patterns. Many of the participants continue in marching bands or drum and bugle corps in high school and college.

Travel is an important component for The Saints Drumline because it allows the participants to meet, perform, and compete against other youth. The drum line participates in parades, exhibitions and competitions throughout the United States. Notably, On Wednesday, April 30, 2008, The Columbus Dispatch featured the Saints Drumline’s showcase performance at The Second Annual Da’Ville Classic Drumline Showcase in Louisville, Kentucky. The audio-visual of this performance can be seen by clicking here.