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Performance Opportunities

Percussion Ensemble

a row of five percussionists playing during a rehearsal

The MSU Percussion Ensemble at the College of Music offers students invaluable opportunities to engage with both new and classic chamber percussion repertoire. This ensemble is dedicated to fostering musical excellence and innovation, providing a platform for students to hone their skills in a collaborative setting.

Performing at prestigious events like the Percussive Arts Society International Convention, the Great Lakes Chamber Music Festival, and the Blue Griffin Recital Series, the ensemble exposes students to diverse audiences and professional standards. These experiences are further enriched by collaborations with esteemed guest artists such as Robert van Sice, Michael Burritt, Gordon Stout, the SO Percussion Group, and Francis Kofi.

Through these high-caliber performances and interactions, students gain critical insights into professional musicianship, expand their artistic horizons, and build valuable connections within the music community.

African Diaspora Percussion Ensemble

Led by Percussion Instructor Kevin Jones, this ensemble immerses students in traditional Congolese drumming, using instruments unique to the African Diaspora. This experience helps students develop technical skills, broaden their musical repertoire, and embrace new cultural perspectives. Performing in the ensemble fosters collaboration and allows students to connect deeply with audiences, highlighting the cultural significance of the music.

Overall, the opportunity to study percussion at MSU and perform in ensembles like the African Diaspora Percussion Ensemble equips students with a well-rounded performance experience, preparing them for successful careers in music while instilling a deep respect for the diverse traditions that shape the world of percussion.

Congolese drumming on authentic instruments, three artists smiling and enjoying the performance

closeup of Spartan Marching Band members who are percussionists, perfomring on a snare drum, in uniform, all in one long lineDrumline

The Michigan State University Drumline has a rich history of excellence. The drumline most often performs as part of the Spartan Marching Band and also performs as an individual unit. The MSU Drumline has performed in Taiwan in 2019, winning the international ensemble competition; New York City in 2012 in Times Square, Carnegie Hall in 2017, Bands of America in 2010 and 2018, the Percussive Arts Society International Convention multiple times, Detroit Pistons and MSU Basketball games, Midnight Madness, MSU Days of Rudimental Percussion, SBS on game days, the 3rd / 4th Quarter Cheers at MSU football home games, bowl games, and many more events.

Other Performance Opportunities

Studio members also have the opportunity to audition for a variety of outstanding ensembles with the MSU College of Music.

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