
Winter Percussion Ensemble (WPE)
The Winter Percussion Ensemble is an extracurricular opportunity that serves as an extension of the band department during the winter months. All DCHS students are welcome and encouraged to join - no percussion experience required! Participation is also open to middle school students who are involved in the middle school’s music programs.
The WPE is a competitively driven group, boasting a long-standing history within Indiana’s percussion community. Having won state & national championships in Percussion Scholastic A, Concert A, and Open Class, the WPE works to honor the program’s history of excellence by pushing the boundaries of the activity and setting the standard for its competitive circuit. Outside of performing, the WPE works to ensure its students walk away with experiences that make them highly sought-after individuals upon graduating by pushing them as performers, musicians, and people.
The WPE’s rehearsal & performance schedule is similar to that of a marching band, typically starting in November and ending in April. Fees for the WPE are calculated each year based on various factors, with fundraising opportunities available. Specific information about the WPE, such as the attendance policy, fee schedule, and student conduct, can be found in the WPE handbook
The Decatur Central HS Winter Percussion Ensemble is under the direction of Joshua Williams and Melissa Val De Ruten.
Information Links:
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WPE Handbook (coming soon)
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Absence Notification Form — https://forms.gle/3gdKk9Rh6JKXGrPx8
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Season calendar (coming soon)
2026 Accomplishment Highlights
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Percussion Scholastic A Class Regional Finalists 3rd Place — 2026 WGI Indianapolis Percussion Regional
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Percussion Scholastic A Class State Finalists — 2026 IPA State Finals
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Percussion Scholastic A Class Semi-Finalists — 2026 WGI World Championships
