Blue Knights "In the lot" was memorable that year too, although Mission Viejo's show was so awesome. Their pit blend with the battery is second to none.
I would definitely say to just go for it. You'll learn everything you need to know by just showing up and being willing to learn everything that that respective teacher has to offer you. Styles vary, so I can't give you any playing tips, but make sure you can hold your cymbals for prolonged amounts of time and that you have great physical conditioning. Good Luck.
At least they tried to explore a dynamic spectrum that almost no one...wait, probably close to no one explores in this day and age.
You ever see the Medea drum parts? Genious writing in my opinion...