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Percussion in UMaine Ensembles | |
The University of Maine Percussion Ensemble has a distinguished
history of performance within this relatively new genre of musical activity.
The group has premiered new works in the US such as the Zivkovic Uneven
Souls as well as performing "older" staples of the repertoire
like Chávez's Toccata (1942) and Varèse's Ionisation
(1931). In 1993, the group was invited to perform at the Percussive Arts
Society International Convention in Columbus, OH where its performance of
the above mentioned work by Nebojsa Jovan Zivkovic was heralded as the "best
of the conference." Mixed in with the more European based compositions,
the ensemble performs in a variety of world music genres such as salsa,
African drumming and Brazilian samba.
This group performs chamber music composed primarily for the medium of percussion.
The specific repertoire chosen for a given semester depends greatly upon
the make-up of the ensemble for that semester. The ability to read music
(e.g. snare drum parts) is a requisite for enrollment in this performance
course. Although it is NOT absolutely necessary to read pitches, percussionists
with experience on keyboard percussion and timpani are strongly encouraged
to enroll. Dr. Thomas Wubbenhorst, Director.
2 hrs of rehearsal per week. Rehearsal times are arranged each semester
to fit everyone's schedule. 0-1 cr.
Pictured above was taken at the Nov. 16, 1999 concert. Below is the fall
semester 1999 group up close, so you can see their smiling faces.
The Symphonic Band performs the most challenging and significant band
literature and offers the accomplished percussionist a satisfying artistic
experience. Rehearsals are T Th 4:10-5:30. Audition required. Prof. Curvin
Farnham, Director. 0-1 cr.
The drum line for the Black Bears Marching Band maintains a standard
of excellence unparalleled in the State. Progressive concepts and advanced
techniques are routinely employed by students with a drum corps background.
The spirit and camaraderie of this precision unit help to provide at once
a satisfying musical and social activity. 0-1 cr.
An important part of our successful winter sports teams, the Pep Band
is an ideal ensemble for the musician/sports fanatic. Many students enroll
for the thrill (not to mention the free admission) of UMaine Black Bear
winter sports. Audition required. 0-1 cr.
Many of the players enrolled in the Black Bears Marching Band during
the fall semester choose to continue their music in the spring semester
by enrolling in the Concert Band. This organization performs music from
the standard concert band repertoire similar to what you experienced in
high school band. No audition required. 0-1 cr.
The orchestra often performs works from the standard symphonic repertoire that require percussion. Interested percussionists should check with Dr. Marrs and Dr. Wieck at the beginning of each semester to determine percussion needs for the group. Rehearsals are M&W 7:00-9:00pm. Dr. Anatole Wieck, Director. 0-1 cr.
Jazz Ensemble - MUO 143
Usually takes two percussionists for big band set playing and vibes with some Latin percussion. 0-1 cr.
Return to the UMaine Percussion
page
Dr. Stuart Marrs
5788 Class of 1944 Hall
Orono, ME 04496-5788
Voice 207.581.1247 Fax 207.581.4701
Email: marrs@maine.edu
Last updated 12.26.2007