From a Phantom regiment press release: Phantom Regiment has called Rockford, Ill., home for nearly five decades -- the corps celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2006 -- and continues to impact the community in unique and growing ways. Now in its second season, "Drums for All" is a partnership between the Rockford Symphony Orchestra and Phantom Regiment in which at-risk elementary students participate in a hands-on, interactive drumming session. RSO percussionist Nick Auriemo and Phantom Regiment director Pat Seidling team-teach in more than 30 classroom settings, reaching more than 700 at-risk and inner-city youth throughout the Rockford area. With a full set of African hand drums provided through the support of the Remo Corp., students not only learn basic concepts of rhythm and music, but also learn teamwork and social skills. RSO Education Director Lorie Langan feels "Drums for All" is a positive event for all participants. "Not only is this great exposure for both the symphony and Phantom Regiment, but it is an absolutely meaningful after-school event for the students," she said. "The interactive aspect that Nick and Pat bring to the classroom makes it a truly effective way to introduce music to these youngsters." Phantom Regiment's partnership with the RSO goes beyond "Drums for All" and includes an equipment sharing agreement and a joint concert event scheduled for April 2006. Also, Rockford Symphony conductor and musical director Steve Larson is a clinician at the Regiment's Drum Major Camp, held each June at Rockford College. Other local events include a Snare Drum Camp in June, a Fall Marching Band Festival set for Oct. 1 and an appearance at the Sinnissippi Park Music Shell in early June to kick of the Rockford Park district's "Concert in the Park" series. For more information on any of these events, e-mail info@regiment.org, visit regiment.org or call 815.226.2835.