The FSU Percussion Ensemble Performance

The FSU Percussion Ensemble had their first performance of the semester on Thursday, Feb. 27. This was a fairly early performance for the ensemble, which shows just how much hard work and practice went into putting this phenomenal performance together. While the ensemble was small, having eight members, the level of skill that these performers have made it seem like there were more members. From switching instruments to managing the stage set-up, all movement was swift and smooth. The ensemble performed six pieces, one of which was a jazz piece and another had a piano accompaniment. There were also two mallet percussion pieces. Dr. LaMont was also happy to have an alumni of Frostburg State University, Cheyenne Jefferies, join the ensemble and perform a few songs.

The opening piece was “Ceremonials” by Paul Creston. This piece had the piano accompaniment by Dr. Yungen. Having a piano in a percussion piece is an unique choice, but the combination worked wonderfully. The piano added a subtle non-percussive note to the piece that is underlying, but still evident and comforting. 

Another piece they performed, “Cross Corners” by George Hamilton Green, was a mallet percussion piece. Green was known as the “Father of the Xylophone Rag” in the percussion world, and this was evident in the piece. The xylophone was the solo instrument and was backed by marimba. The soloist, Blaine Becker, a senior percussion major, played with passion and ease through the whole piece. He did the piece justice with his solo performance, playing the piece with control and comfort. With the catchy melody the xylophone had and the soft background the marimba provided, it is evident why Green earned his moniker. 

The ensemble also performed “Encore in Jazz” by Vic Firth. This jazz percussion piece came from left field, but added a fun twist to the concert. Jazz is typically seen as a full band with a strong woodwind and brass line and a fun percussion background. This piece shows a jazz piece that is percussion only and has a grooving timpani feature performed by Ryan Barber, a percussion major. 

The rest of the songs performed were done with wonderful musicianship and attention to detail. The music choices kept the performance upbeat and interesting by the changing tones and tempos as well as instrumentation. There were breaks between pieces for equipment rearranging for the best sound and projection. During these changes, Dr. LaMont introduced each piece, with a little humor and some information about the composer and the piece itself. His short, humorous remarks kept the performance going even when there was no music. The ensemble will perform next on April 30th.