Duquesne's percussion program is designed to assist each student in developing critical performing and teaching skills in the variety of percussion instruments. Instructional programs, taught by a faculty that includes two members of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, include applied studies in orchestral and commercial styles, as well as the development of pedagogical skills.
Facilities available to students include teaching studios and practice rooms devoted exclusively to percussion. The school houses an unusually extensive inventory of percussion equipment, including a set of Clevelander Dresden model timpani, Yamaha timpani, four concert grand marimbas, two xylophones, two sets of orchestra bells, Wuhan gongs, and a wide variety of other instruments.
Graduate Students
We are proud to offer highly competitive Graduate Performance Awards and Assistantships that can cover up to 100% of tuition.
Contact the Percussion Area Coordinator.Questions About Studying Percussion?
Adjunct Professor of Percussion Adjunct Professor of Percussion Adjunct Professor of Percussion; Percussion Area Coordinator Adjunct Professor of Percussion Adjunct Professor of Jazz Percussion
Percussion Faculty
Christopher Allen
Jim Benoit
Eliseo Rael
John Soroka
Jazz Percussion Faculty
Thomas Wendt
Upcoming Percussion Events
Uptown Jazz Series: Retrospective - Concert 1
Performers Trumpet: JD Chaisson Trombone: Jeff Bush Saxophone: Mike Tomaro Piano: Max...
Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Workshop, and Jazz Vocal Ensemble
Mike Tomaro, Jeff Bush, and Kelley Krepin DeFade, directorsAdmission$10 Suggested Donation...
Wind Ensembles
Dr. James Gourlay, Director of BandsFeaturing Charles Lazarus, trumpetAdmission$10 Suggested...
Duquesne Symphony Orchestra
Daniel Meyer, Director of Orchestral ActivitiesAdmission$10 Suggested Donation (at the...
The Dean's List - Concert II: Strike Up the Band
Pre-concert Discussion with Dr. James Gourlay at 7:00 p.m.This concert features Duquesne’s...
Percussion Facilities
You will have access to two percussion studios at the Mary Pappert School of Music. In addition, the Jazz Studio is equipped with a drum set.