Students in the Percussion Area study both traditional and contemporary literature in all phases of percussion. The U of M Percussion Ensemble gives students an opportunity to put their increased knowledge to work through a variety of performances that include jazz, pop, multi-media presentations, and the Memphis Mallet Masters, a ragtime xylophone and marimba group. The ensemble also takes its programs on short tours to area high schools and colleges. It has also appeared at the Tennessee Music Educators Association Convention in Nashville, the Music Teachers National Association Convention in Little Rock, and the ensemble has appeared 4 times at the Percussive Arts Society International Convention. The University Band program consists of the Athletic bands including "The Mighty Sound of the South" and two pep bands; and three concert ensembles including the Wind Ensemble, the Symphonic Band, and the University Band. Percussionists also have opportunities to perform in the University Orchestra, jazz bands, combos, and world ensembles.

For more information on this area of study, contact Frank Shaffer at fshaffer@memphis.edu.

Faculty

• Michael Assad (M.M.)
• Michael Karcz
• Edward Murray
• Frank Shaffer (D.M.A.)