| PERCUSSION PROGRAM |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many percussion majors are in the UM Percussion Program and what is the breakdown of their degree programs?
Currently there are 24 students in the UM percussion program. BM: 19, MM: 3, Specialist: 1, DMA: 1
What do you think sets the UM Percussion Program apart from others?
The fact that the School of Music, Theatre and Dance is housed within one of the leading research institutions in the world sets our program apart. The school's setting as a part of a leading university "adds to the complete student experience". Students have access to a conservatory environment, yet also are able to take advantage of limitless academic opportunities in addition to numerous additional resources. Another asset is the exceptionally high quality of students in all of the other instrumental/vocal studios. This creates a very engaging, inspiring, and motivating artistic environment in addition to limitless opportunities for peer-led collaborations. Additionally, the fact that our four percussion faculty are all very active, performing teachers also connects our students to a 21st-century performing world.
Do students study one area of percussion more than any other?
In consultation with their private studio teachers, students develop a curriculum of study based upon their goals and areas and instruments deemed appropriate by their teachers. The program prides itself on offering a "comprehensive approach" and students often study in multiple areas including solo and chamber repertoire, drum set, timpani, and world music.
Do students study any world percussion?
World Percussion Ensemble, co-directed by Professors Ovalle and Gramley and with the assistance of a dedicated fellowship awarded to a qualified graduate student, provides world music study. Students may also study world percussion in private lessons and the University of Michigan Percussion Program invites numerous guest artists to our campus each year. Many of these artists focus on world percussion instruments and are leaders in their field.
How many concerts does the percussion ensemble give?
On the average, the ensemble performs 2-3 concerts, per semester.
How many lessons of what length are students given and how are they divided among the professors?
Each student receives twelve one-hour private lessons per semester. First-year students are assigned to a given professor based on professor's overall load and each students percussive needs. Second and third-year students have the choice of selecting their professor and can elect different professors on a semester-to-semester basis. Seniors and graduate students only are offered the option of splitting lessons between two different professors within a single semester on an alternating week schedule.
Do undergraduates ever take lessons from graduate students?
NO. Percussion Majors at the University of Michigan are all assigned to study with our four principal percussion Faculty: Joseph Gramley, Jonathan Ovalle, Ian Ding and Cary Kocher. They are not assigned to study with graduate students. Having talented and experienced Masters and Doctoral level students is, however, another great tool for learning at the University of Michigan. Our undergraduate students can use these graduates as a resource as needed and perform with them in Large Ensembles and Chamber Music Ensembles.
What are students required to complete in the way of recitals?
All Percussion Performance majors are required to complete their Senior Recital after playing the repertoire for the faculty on a jury. Students are also encouraged to play a Junior Recital which can be a full or half-recital. Often, students give non-degree recitals as sophomores or even freshmen.
Do guest artists frequently come to your studio?
YES. The University of Michigan Percussion Program is fortunate to be able to connect students with successful professionals in all areas of the percussion field. The program has a great history of bringing top-tier artists to our campus for masterclasses and performances every semester. These guests can be related to a presentation with the University Musical Society (such as San Francisco Symphony principal timpanist David Herbert in 2008) or as a special guest of the Percussion Program (such as Philadelphia Orchestra Principal Percussionist Chris Deviney in 2008, and Afro-Cuban specialist Michael Spiro, also in 2008) Please see our guest artists page.
Do many of your students take courses at in other areas or complete minors/double majors in other areas?
YES. Because the School of Music, Theater and Dance is housed within a leading academic institution, one of the benefits is that its academic curricular offerings are immense and varied. There are a myriad of options for our students to pursue any number of interests. In any given year, we may have one or two students studying under the BMA degree program. Others might be pursuing a dual degree in one of the many degree offerings of this fine Institution. For more information, see degree requirements, dual degrees, and LSA minors.
How are parts assigned in the Orchestras and Concert Bands?
Placement in ensemble is determined by a blind placement audition every semester. Parts are assigned by ensemble directors in bands and by ensemble directors in conjunction with section leaders in orchestras. In instances where a major orchestra excerpt is performed, the faculty may choose to hold an orchestral audition. The winner will have the opportunity of playing the excerpt in concert.
Do many students participate in other ensembles such as marching bands, jazz ensembles, etc?
Yes, marching band is an option for the large ensemble curriculum. Additionally, some students have participated in both marching band and an orchestra or concert band. One of the Jazz Ensembles is not an option because it conflicts with studio class. The other conflicts only with Symphony Band, so it may be an option. However, many students have participated in jazz combos.
Are Music Education majors given the same opportunities as performance majors?
YES. Music Education majors are given exactly the same opportunities as performance majors. This includes lessons and performing ensembles.
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