The Ohio Valley is about to get loud as local drummers gear up for the Rhythm Rumble on May 3, hosted by the Center of Music and Art. This high-energy event invites percussionists aged 18 and over to showcase their talent in a head-to-head drumming competition.
Participants will each get 90 seconds to perform on a drum kit before a panel of judges. From there, the top 10 will advance, with only the top three earning exclusive drum-related prizes.
Registration is completely free, but spots are limited. Check-in for competitors begins at 1:30 p.m. on the day of the event.
Sponsored by Mapex and Bucks County Drum Co., the Rhythm Rumble will reward standout performers with high-quality gear. The first-place winner will take home a Mapex steel snare and a saddle-style drum throne. The second-place winner will receive a Mapex Mars shell pack in bonewood, while third place earns a Mapex Saturn shell pack along with a snare from Bucks County Drum Co.
Michael Anthony, Chief Operating Officer of the Center of Music and Art, emphasized that the event is open to any drummer with basic skills and the courage to perform.
“There are so many players out there who think, ‘I’m not good enough,’” Anthony said. “But you don’t know until you try. This event isn’t just about winning — it’s about connecting with other musicians, sharing your skills, and building community.”
Anthony highlighted the Ohio Valley as a vibrant area filled with talented bands and individual musicians. Rhythm Rumble aims to bring those players together under one roof — a perfect setting for networking, collaboration, and even recruitment. “If a band needs a drummer,” he said, “this could be the place to find one.”
The concept for Rhythm Rumble follows in the footsteps of the CMA’s earlier competition, Art of the Shred, held on January 18. That event featured guitarists battling for prizes and drew a full house despite some pre-registered players getting cold feet. This time, Anthony hopes participants won’t shy away due to nerves.
“We don’t want people to be nervous,” he said. “Just come in, enjoy the experience, and learn from others who are honing their craft.”
The competition will feature a provided drum kit and hardware, though drummers can bring their own sticks. According to Anthony, keeping everyone on a communal kit ensures a level playing field, where talent — not gear — takes center stage.
“A great drummer could play on anything — even a Hello Kitty drum set — and still make it rock,” he said.
For those who want to improve their performance or build on what they learn at the event, the CMA offers private and group music lessons year-round. Rhythm Rumble also ties into broader efforts at the CMA, including upcoming introductory drumline and band classes.
Anthony credits the idea for the competition to ongoing discussions with long-time percussion instructor Bill Cashdollar. Their shared vision: to use events like Rhythm Rumble as a fun and engaging way to introduce drummers to the CMA and its educational programs.
Ultimately, Rhythm Rumble is about more than just the contest. It’s a celebration of rhythm, community, and creativity.
So whether you’re a seasoned drummer or someone who just loves to play, the Center of Music and Art invites you to bring the beat — and maybe find your band, your rhythm, or even your next big break.
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