A performance by Lakewood High School’s drumline has gone viral on TikTok, drawing more than 2.5 million views in less than a week and sparking a national conversation about the value of creative arts education in schools.
The video, posted by TikTok user @jenbrez7, shows the drumline delivering a performance without traditional drums. Instead, students use their desks as percussion instruments, tapping rhythms, stomping their feet, and closing textbooks in time to create a beat.
Viewers around the world have praised the performance not only for its energy and precision but also for its innovative use of everyday classroom items. One commenter wrote, “This is why we need arts in schools,” while another stated, “Always give the drum line creative freedom… you’ll never regret it.”
Lakewood High School has a history of using creative musical performances to engage the community. In 2013, the school gained national attention when its lip-dub video to Katy Perry’s “Roar” won a contest hosted by ABC’s “Good Morning America,” earning the students a live concert from the pop star herself.
The recent viral video has renewed discussions about the importance of supporting arts education, with many viewers emphasizing how such programs inspire teamwork, confidence, and school pride.
The idea for the performance was coordinated by Austen Jankowski, Lakewood High’s assistant director of bands. The piece is called “Book Bash,” composed by Brian Slawson.
