IUP Percussion Studio

05/01/2026

On Tuesday, we held our final studio recital of the semester, providing students with the opportunity to showcase the results of their dedication and preparation on their solo repertoire. Each performer demonstrated a high level of musicianship and commitment, reflecting the hard work they have put in throughout the term. It was a wonderful way to celebrate their progress, and we are proud of all they have accomplished!

04/30/2026

Congratulations to Dylan Geibel and James Kordish on their outstanding performances at the final IUP Music Departmental of the semester!

Dylan delivered a gorgeously compelling rendition of "Land" by Takatsugu Muramatsu on marimba, while James showcased exceptional precision and energy with "Tantrum" by Kevin Bobo on snare drum.

Bravo to both musicians for representing the studio with such artistry and dedication!

04/25/2026

Yesterday, we held our studio recital, where students had the opportunity to perform their solo repertoire for their peers. Each performer delivered an outstanding performance, and we’re looking forward to hearing even more great music next week!

04/17/2026

On Tuesday, the IUP Percussion Ensemble got to showcase their hard work in Fisher Auditorium. The program highlighted a diverse range of repertoire, reflecting the ensemble’s dedication, musicianship, and collaborative spirit. From intricate rhythmic passages to powerful full ensemble moments, the performance was a true testament to the time and effort invested throughout the semester. Thank you to everyone who came out to support and celebrate an evening of percussion!

IUP Percussionists, always proud of you!

04/13/2026

See you tomorrow night 🥁

04/13/2026

Last weekend, on April 4, the IUP Drumline hosted a dynamic workshop for high school percussionists, with a special focus on battery percussion. Students had the opportunity to refine their technique, develop new skills, and engage with a variety of literature in a comprehensive, hands-on setting. The day was a tremendous success, made possible by the leadership and expertise of Scott Kemerer, Brandon Miller, and the dedicated IUP Drumline student leadership team!

03/26/2026

Join us on April 14th for the IUP Percussion Ensemble Concert! 🥁

This exciting program will feature a diverse selection of works by a range of composers, including the premiere of "Refractions" by Stanley Leonard, which celebrates the legacy of percussion teachers and was written for Chad Heiny, the Percussion Ensemble of Indiana University of Pennsylvania and in honor of the University's 150th Anniversary.

We are thrilled to share the culmination of our ensemble’s hard work and dedication, and we look forward to an inspiring evening of music with you!🎵

03/18/2026

Congratulations to IUP Percussion alumnus Chris Hestin on his induction into the WGI Hall of Fame—an outstanding and well-deserved achievement!

Chris Hestin has spent the last decade and a half as the WGI Percussion Judge Coordinator, where he has overseen and guided the continued evolution of the craft of percussion adjudication. Now in 2026, Hestin enters the WGI Hall of Fame for his numerous contributions to the indoor percussion activity.

Read our full profile: https://www.wgi.org/26hof-chrishestin/

02/03/2026

Please welcome our newest member of the percussion studio, freshman Caleb Eger!

01/31/2026

Yesterday, we had an incredible time welcoming Dr. Gifford Howarth to IUP for a masterclass with our percussion studio! He shared outstanding strategies for improving sight-reading skills and offered inspiring insight into approaching marimba solos. Our students learned so much from his expertise, and we feel truly fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with him. Thank you so much for visiting, Dr. Howarth—we hope to see you back at IUP again soon!