Percussion Ensemble (CRN 88279)
Percussion Ensemble Fall 2024-2025 Dates:
Nov. 12, 2024 - Guest Artist Recital by Fabian Ziegler
Nov. 5, 2024 - Fall Concert - CID Performance Hall
April 5, 2025 - Spring Concert- Moss Arts Center, Fife Theatre
Virginia Tech Percussion Ensemble (VTP), directed by Annie Stevens, is a university ensemble open to music majors and non-majors by audition in the fall semester. Past guests with the ensemble have included Michael Burritt (Eastman School of Music), Matthew Coley (Heartland Marimba), Heather Thorn, Scott Herring (University of South Carolina), Otu Kojo (West African Drummer), and Valerie Naranjo (SNL Orchestra, Lion King on Broadway). VTP performs a wide body of repertoire from classical transcriptions and chamber works to traditional West African drumming music and large percussion orchestra pieces. The ensemble features several guest artists throughout the year and students have the opportunity to participate in masterclasses with visiting guest artists on several occasions. Percussion majors are automatically eligible for participation in the ensemble, and non-majors are required to audition at the beginning of the fall semester. (See audition info below). Non-majors must be equally proficient on mallet instruments and snare drum. No new members will be admitted to the ensemble in the spring semester.
Audition information:
All non-majors must show fluency on both snare drum and mallets to be considered for the ensemble. The audition for non-majors consists of the audition etudes (see the link below), as well as sight reading on both snare drum and mallets. 4-mallet technique on mallets is not a requirement for acceptance into the ensemble. There is an expectation that ensemble members will meet at least once a week for rehearsal outside of designated class time. Non-majors interested in auditioning should email Dr. Annie Stevens at ajs@vt.edu to set up an audition date. The audition will occur the week before fall semester classes, or during the first week of classes. There will be no auditions for acceptance into the ensemble for the spring semester. Auditions only occur in the fall.
Find the audition packet here.
Instagram: @vt_percussion
Non-major students are encouraged to participate in the Symphony Band. Contact Polly Middleton to inquire about the Symphony Band percussion auditions.
Want to know more?
Annie Stevens is happy to answer your questions.