Percussion at Central Washington University

 

In order to study Percussion at CWU, you must first audition for the music faculty. Visit our Percussion Audition Requirements page for specific information on the audition process. Transfer students should be sure to visit our Transfer Student Information for Music Majors page for very important transfer student considerations.

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When you choose to study Percussion at CWU you receive well-rounded exposure and experience in many CWU Ensemble performance settings along with directed, intensive training for careers in teaching, performance, and research. Traditional participation in percussion ensemble, as well as numerous solo opportunities is supplemented with more innovative approaches of incorporating music into the fabric of everyday life.

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A relaxed and fluid technique is considered a necessary preliminary to expressive musicianship: students are expected to maintain a rigorous practice ethic, working to develop technical mastery of their instrument. They are guided in the search to find their own musical voice, and afforded numerous opportunities to become comfortable expressing themselves in performance situations. CWU's percussion studio provides students with immersive study and weekly lessons. With many solo, chamber, Jazz and large ensemble experiences, the performance opportunities provided by the Music Department combine well with the “learn by doing” approach offered in private lessons and studio classes.

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Frequent special events, featuring regional, national, and international guest performers and ensembles augment these opportunities to provide more “real world” exposure to the challenges of musical careers.

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Relevant coursework in CWU’s different degree programs range from strong core work in theory and history, to intensive specialized courses in percussion literature and pedagogy.

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Current and former percussion students perform with such groups as US armed service bands, the Oregon, Walla Walla, Spokane, Yakima, Wenatchee Valley, Mid-Columbia and Okanagon (BC) Symphony Orchestras to name a few.

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Performance Opportunities for Percussionists at CWU

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• Wind Ensemble

• Symphonic Band

• Symphony Orchestra

• Percussion Ensemble

• Jazz Ensembles

• Chamber and Early Music Ensembles

• Marching Band

• Basketball Band