Percussion
There are many playing opportunities for percussionists at BYU, both in band ensembles and other groups as well. The Percussion Area within the BYU School of Music participates in several very high-quality ensembles. These groups include:
- Percussion Ensemble — Performs a variety of literature for every percussion instrument imaginable — everything from avante-garde to popular classics to ethnic/world music. Rehearses on Tuesday and Thursday, 3:00–3:50 pm. (Auditions are held the first two days of class each Fall and Winter semester. Sign up sheets are on the bulletin board outside E-281 HFAC. Come prepared with a solo of your choice and be prepared to sight read.)
- Panoramic Steel — BYU's own steel drum ensemble, a large group using all the standard Trinidadian instruments, from lead pan to bass pans, all fashioned from 55 gallon barrels crafted by the internationally acclaimed Ellie Mannette. Traditional Calypso and Soca music is performed along with a unique blend of Brazilian and other popular musical styles. Rehearses on Fridays, 1:00–2:50 pm. (Auditions are held the first two days of class - basically to see how well you read music and your understanding of syncopated rhythms. Prior pan experience is always appreciated - but not necessary.)
- Concert Bands and Symphony Orchestras — Wind Symphony, Symphonic Band, University Band, Sinfonia and Philharmonic Orchestra. These large ensembles provide percussionises with valuable experiance in a concert/orchestral setting. Rehearsal times vary; some groups tour every other year.
- Marching Band — The BYU Drumline (the field battery of the Cougar Marching Band) is one of the premiere drumlines in the country. Audition is required, and takes place in the Spring before the season begins; scholarship money is available.
- Pep Bands — BYU's two 30-piece Pep Bands each have one drumset player. These groups perform at many of the men's and women's athletic events from December through March. Auditions take place in early October, and scholarship money is available.
- Jazz Bands — BYU's Jazz Studies Area includes three big bands and a variety of Jazz Combos for the Jazz drummer and percussionist. Audition times and procedures vary depending on the group.
- Salsa Combo An Afro-Cuban Ensemble for drum set players and hand percussionists. Individual auditions are held the first three days of class, and group auditions are held the first Wednesday of the semester in E-251 from 3:00 pm until 4:50 pm. (Also part of BYU Jazz Studies.)
- Private Studio Instruction — Both music majors and non-majors can register for private lessons and receive individual instruction on a variety of percussion instruments.
If you have questions, please contact Ron Brough (BYU Studio Faculty for Percussion) directly. (Send email)
