General Outline of the UofK Percussion Program The following paragraphs outline some of the specific goals and responsibilities of a UofK percussionist (quoted directly from the UofK percussion handbook). "Cultural and stylistic diversity is the future of music and society. For a percussionist, versatility is the key to maintaining a cutting edge in our current cultural and economic climate. Percussion crosses all boundaries and percussion students have the widest possible vocabulary of instruments and musical genres to master - more than any other instrumentalist. To stay competitive, a percussionist must be fluent in the standard orchestral instruments and literature of snare drum, mallet keyboard, timpani and accessories; 20th century styles of multiple percussion and MIDI percussion; jazz and commercial styles of drum set and vibraphone; electronic percussion and computer music applications; global music styles of Africa, the Caribbean, Latin America, Asia, and India. Additionally, music educators and performers of the 21st century should be prepared to face extra-musical challenges ranging from cuts in funding and program reductions to the ups and downs of an unpredictable and highly competitive live music market. The percussion program at the University of Kentucky is a comprehensive approach to the study and performance of literature in all styles and idioms of music. The percussion curriculum is designed to develop musicianship, technical proficiency, cultural awareness, and technological literacy in both performance and pedagogy. Regardless of degree concentration, the undergraduate student will maintain regular study of keyboard percussion and additional directed areas based on individual goals and needs. Graduate students may choose to specialize in one or more areas as they work toward degree recital requirements. The goal of the Percussion Studies Program is to provide professional-level experiences and opportunities for all students that will foster growth through self-discipline, creativity, and entrepreneurship. Successful students will embrace these challenges and others as they develop a passion for life-long learning that will lead to a rewarding career. James Campbell Professor of Music
|
UKPS The U.K.P.S. was founded in 1989 to provide percussion students an opportunity to promote and develop the area of percussion throughout the community and university. Membership is open to all university students interested in percussion activities. The Society sponsors percussion guest artists and is involved in service activities that promote percussion education. Percussion majors and minors are required to join U.K.P.S. and keep dues current. Several Awards are also given out to oustanding students for their dedication and leadership throught the UK percussion community with the help of generious alumni and family donations. See the Awards link for more information. |
|