Percussion Ensemble
The SPU Percussion Ensemble is a select group of instrumentalists who study and perform music from the ever-expanding repertoire of the world of percussion. The ensemble features three to four groups arranged according to student abilities and experience.
The "ethnic group" focuses on the traditional drumming of West Africa, Cuba, Brazil, and the South Pacific. The "chamber groups" perform classical works by the world's most renowned percussion composers, and the "historical group" performs traditional drumming of the American Revolution and Civil War on period instruments.
The Percussion Ensemble performs on and off campus, including at quarterly concerts, the Northwest Percussion Festival, and the annual SPU Ivy Cutting ceremony in June. Ensemble percussionists also provide percussion for SPU's Symphony Orchestra and Symphonic Wind Ensemble.
Membership
Membership in Percussion Ensemble is by audition. If you are a musician who plays percussion, you are invited to audition for Percussion Ensemble — whether you are a Music major, a Music minor, or a nonmajor. Auditions take place at the beginning of Autumn Quarter (see notices posted in the lobby of Crawford Music Building prior to the beginning of the quarter). A yearlong commitment is expected, and you may take the course an unlimited number of times.
Director and Faculty Contact
Dan Adams
Instructor of Percussion; Director of Percussion Ensemble
Email: danadams@spu.eduPhone: 206-281-2143
Office: Beegle 1
The Drums of War
Percussion Ensemble Director Dan Adams owns six authentic Civil War drums, half ceremonial, half showing the scars of battle. Read more.
Did You Know?
Arts Events at SPU
SPU hosts many arts-related events throughout the year. Pictured above: SPU Theatre Department production of "The Billy Goats Gruff" by John Davies, directed by Don Yanik.