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Percussion Studio
Percussion Studio
Percussion Studio
Western offers a faculty member dedicated to establishing a technical and musical foundation on which students can build successful performing and teaching careers. The percussion studio typically consists of 16 undergraduate and graduate students combined. An undergraduate degree from Western develops the dedication and work ethic that prepares our students with the skills necessary to be successful in whichever career path they choose. We offer a competitive and supportive performance atmosphere coupled with rigorous academics. Consistency in technique, combined with emphasis on sound quality and musicianship, are hallmarks of the Percussion Studio at Western. Our faculty are available for extra consultation and foster a sense of community among all students. Graduate students benefit from new perspectives and experiences as well as generous funding, and for those who qualify, teaching assistantships.
Percussion Suite Facilities
The percussion suite includes more than 2,400 square feet of teaching studios, rehearsal rooms, five large dedicated practice rooms and storage space.
Undergraduate Percussion Majors
- Full-hour lessons for the entire four years
- Performance Majors receive one and a half-hour lessons in their third and fourth years as they prepare for recitals and juries
- Participation in the Percussion Ensemble
- Masterclasses
- Participation in at least one other large instrumental ensemble such as the Symphony Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band or Jazz Ensemble.
- Chamber Ensemble opportunities are also available
Percussion Ensemble
The Western University Percussion Ensemble is a dynamic performing group comprised of Percussion Majors who perform a variety of styles with a focus on contemporary percussion literature. There are often appearances by guest artists, including a residency with TORQ Percussion Ensemble.
Alumni Testimonials
"The social connections of the studio were incredible, I am still close friends today with many of the other percussionists I spent those 4 years with. I wouldn't trade my time in the Western Percussion Studio for anything."
M.M., BMus'12 (Hons. Music Education), MMus'20 (Music Education), High School Music Teacher, Hamilton, ON
"The education I got from Western was world-class and specifically the ensembles and lessons I took have greatly prepared me for working in several different fields of the music industry. The Percussion studio was without a doubt the most educational and hard-working components to my time at Western."
M.S., BMusA'17, Freelance Musician, London, ON
"I feel very fortunate that I was able to attend Western for my music degree. By being part of the percussion studio, I was able to meet many people that share the same passion for music that I do."
S.D., BMusA'11, High School Music Teacher, Toronto, ON
"Besides the fact that I teach music, the other life skills that are taught in the perc program are far-reaching and all-encompassing. Team work, professionalism, motivation and commitment are just some of the skills imparted to us as students."
J.T., BMusA'08, High School Music Teacher, Calgary, AB
"The Western Percussion Studio was the base that we all needed while navigating ourselves and our lives. It taught us how to be responsible for ourselves, how to help others (and when to not help others), and how to work with people who may not have the same learning style as you. It particularly helped me develop patience with myself as I was young, naive and anxious. Attending Western and being involved in the Percussion Studio was an essential part of my development as a teacher, musician, and individual."
K.N., BMus'11 (Hons. Music Education), High School Music Teacher, Ottawa, ON
"Western was a critical stepping stone in my career. I was able to accelerate at Western due to the friendly and helpful atmosphere at the music school."
J.B., MMus'14, Percussionist with the Royal Canadian Artillery Band
Contact
Bobbi Thompson
Winds, Brass & Percussion Division Coordinator
bthomp24@uwo.ca