Nathan Haymer, the Director of Bands for the Southern University and A&M College System, took a trip to San Diego. Like on any other vacation, he thought he'd be relaxing and seeing the sights but there was a different surprise waiting for him that he didn't expect.

The Heartbeat Music and Performing Arts Academy, formed in 2014 by Tyra Hawthorne, a former member of the Grambling State University marching band, had a different idea about director Haymer's itinerary. While he paid a visit to these local students, he told the Thunder Squad Drumline that their sticks are, "your key to get out of here, because I came here ready to give scholarships! I want to write a scholarship for you to come and pursue an education, by way of band." And so an impromptu audition session began.

The very next morning, three students at the Heartbeat Music and Performing Arts Academy woke up to an email from Haymer himself. Freshman percussionist Mekai Cross, sophomore percussionist Kylen Dent, and Olympian and trumpet playing high school junior Alexandria Payton were all offered scholarships to Southern University and A&M College. Payton was offered a full scholarship when she graduates in 2018.

The university also hosts a yearly high school band camp in the summer and the Thunder Squad Drumline was given a band scholarship that will allow the entire group to work with director Haymer and his staff beginning in June.

The Heartbeat Music and Performing Arts Academy

Get relevant content delivered to you once a week