Excellence in Percussion Education and PerformanceUniversity of Kentucky Percussion Studies
About Percussion Studies
The University of Kentucky Percussion Studies program, housed within the UK School of Music, has established itself as one of the premier percussion programs in the region. With a comprehensive curriculum that balances traditional and contemporary approaches, students develop skills across a wide range of percussion instruments and styles.
In 2021, despite the challenges presented by the global pandemic, the percussion studies program continued to thrive through innovative adaptations and unwavering commitment to musical excellence. Students and faculty found creative ways to maintain performance opportunities, educational growth, and artistic development under extraordinary circumstances.
The program focuses on developing well-rounded percussionists who excel in both solo and ensemble contexts. Students have access to world-class facilities and instruments, and perform in a variety of ensembles including the UK Percussion Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, Wind Symphony, and various chamber groups.
Distinguished Faculty
The percussion studies program is led by accomplished artists and educators who bring extensive performance experience and pedagogical expertise to their teaching.
Prof. James Campbell
Director of Percussion Studies
Professor Campbell served as the Director of Percussion Studies at the University of Kentucky until his retirement in 2021. A renowned percussionist and educator, he has performed with orchestras worldwide and served as president of the Percussive Arts Society. His influence shaped the program's curriculum and artistic direction for decades.
Prof. Michelle Bourgeois
Associate Professor of Percussion
Professor Bourgeois joined the UK faculty in 2019 and brought fresh perspectives to the program. Her expertise in contemporary percussion literature, world percussion, and innovative pedagogy enriched the students' educational experience. In 2021, she played a key role in adapting teaching methods for virtual and hybrid instruction.
Dr. Samuel Z. Solomon
Artist-in-Residence
Dr. Solomon, a celebrated performer and composer, served as Artist-in-Residence in 2021, contributing his unique artistic vision to the program. His compositions and performances pushed boundaries and inspired students to explore new dimensions of percussion music.
Percussion Ensembles
The University of Kentucky offers students multiple opportunities for ensemble performance, each providing distinctive musical experiences.
UK Percussion Ensemble
The UK Percussion Ensemble, under the direction of Michelle Bourgeois, performed works ranging from classic percussion repertoire to cutting-edge contemporary compositions. In 2021, despite performance restrictions, the ensemble presented both virtual concerts and carefully managed in-person performances, showcasing remarkable resilience and adaptability.
Not that year's program included works by John Cage, Steve Reich, Iannis Xenakis, and compositions by UK faculty and students. The ensemble's 2021 virtual presentation, "Rhythms of Resilience," received positive reviews for both musical excellence and innovative production.
Steel Band
The UK Steel Band continued to be a crowd favorite, bringing the vibrant sounds of Trinidad and Tobago to campus and community events. In 2021, under the direction of Professor Bourgeois, the steel band adapted to performance limitations by creating digital recordings and carefully planned outdoor performances.
The ensemble's repertoire featured traditional calypsos, contemporary soca, and arrangements of popular music. Students in the steel band learned not only performance techniques but also about the cultural context and history of the instruments.
Curriculum and Academic Programs
University of Kentucky Percussion Studies offers comprehensive degree programs that prepare students for various career paths in music.
Undergraduate Programs
The Bachelor of Music in Performance provides intensive study in percussion with coursework in music theory, history, and pedagogy. Students develop proficiency in snare drum, keyboard percussion, timpani, drum set, world percussion, and multiple percussion.
Graduate Programs
The Master of Music in Performance offers advanced study for students seeking to refine their musicianship and prepare for professional performance or teaching careers. The 2021 graduate cohort included students pursuing various specializations, from orchestral percussion to contemporary chamber music.
Curriculum Adaptations in 2021
Due to pandemic-related constraints, the curriculum was adapted to include:
- Enhanced screen-sharing techniques for remote lessons
- Development of self-recording skills for performance assessment
- Expanded use of technology for ensemble collaboration
- Increased focus on score study and analysis
- Special projects in composition and arrangement
2021 Achievements Highlights
Despite the challenges of the year, UK percussion students and faculty achieved numerous successes:
- Graduate student Ethan Thompson won first prize in the Kentucky Music Teachers Association Young Artist Percussion Competition
- Senior Hannah Roberts presented at the virtual Percussive Arts Society International Convention
- The UK Percussion Ensemble's virtual performance of "Six Marimbas" by Steve Reich was featured on the classical music blog "The Classical Review"
- Professor Michelle Bourgeois was appointed to the Editorial Board of Percussive Notes magazine
- Percussion studies alumni were accepted into prestigious graduate programs at Eastman, Northwestern, and the University of Michigan
- Graduate teaching assistant Morgan Davis successfully defended her thesis "Pedagogical Approaches to Remote Percussion Instruction"
- The percussion program established a new partnership with Lexington's local school system, providing virtual workshops for area students
- Several students received graduate assistantship offers from top music programs nationwide
Admissions Information
The University of Kentucky Percussion Studies program welcomes talented and dedicated students who wish to pursue excellence in percussion performance.
Audition Requirements
Prospective students must audition demonstrating proficiency in multiple areas:
- Snare drum: concert etude and rudimental solo
- Keyboard percussion: two-mallet solo, four-mallet solo
- Timpani: solo or etude demonstrating tuning ability
- Drum set: various styles (optional but recommended)
- Sight-reading on all instruments
Applications
Applications for admission to the School of Music are separate from the general university application. Students must submit:
- Completed School of Music application
- Prescreening video recordings (in 2021)
- Letters of recommendation
- Performance resume
Scholarships
Merit-based scholarships are available to outstanding percussion students. In 2021, despite budget constraints, the School of Music was able to maintain competitive scholarship packages for talented incoming students.
For more information about admissions and auditions, prospective students should contact the UK School of Music directly or visit the university admissions website. Individual consultations with faculty members can be arranged to discuss program details and career goals.
Contact Information
University of Kentucky School of Music
105 Fine Arts Building, Lexington, KY 40506
For specific information about Percussion Studies:
Email: percussion@uky.edu
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