Duquesne's percussion program is designed to assist each student in developing critical performing and teaching skills in the variety of percussion instruments. Instructional programs, taught by a faculty that includes two members of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, include applied studies in orchestral and commercial styles, as well as the development of pedagogical skills.

Facilities available to students include teaching studios and practice rooms devoted exclusively to percussion. The school houses an unusually extensive inventory of percussion equipment, including a set of Clevelander Dresden model timpani, Yamaha timpani, four concert grand marimbas, two xylophones, two sets of orchestra bells, Wuhan gongs, and a wide variety of other instruments.

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Graduate Students

We are proud to offer highly competitive Graduate Performance Awards and Assistantships that can cover up to 100% of tuition.

Questions About Studying Percussion?

Contact the Percussion Area Coordinator.

Eliseo Rael

Adjunct Professor of Percussion; Percussion Area Coordinator

man in brown sweater holds percussion mallets.
 


Percussion Faculty

Christopher Allen

Christopher Allen

Adjunct Professor of Percussion

Jim Benoit

Jim Benoit

Adjunct Professor of Percussion

Eliseo Rael

Eliseo Rael

Adjunct Professor of Percussion; Percussion Area Coordinator

John Soroka

John Soroka

Adjunct Professor of Percussion


Jazz Percussion Faculty

Thomas Wendt

Thomas Wendt

Adjunct Professor of Jazz Percussion

Upcoming Percussion Events

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Student Recital: David Uhlmann, percussion

From the studio of Jim Benoit.

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  • Mary Pappert School of Music
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Uptown Jazz Series: Retrospective - Concert 3

Performers Trumpet: JD ChaissonTrombone: Jeff BushSaxophone: Mike TomaroPiano: Max LeakeGuitar:...

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  • Mary Pappert School of Music
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A quartet rehearses.

Jazz Chamber Groups and Jazz Guitar Ensemble

Jeff Bush and Eric Susoeff, directorsAdmission$10 Suggested Donation (at the door)

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  • Mary Pappert School of Music
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Graphic featuring a silhouette of the Pittsburgh skyline on a textured sunset background.

Uptown Jazz Series: Retrospective - Concert 4

Performers Trumpet: JD ChaissonTrombone: Jeff BushSaxophone: Mike TomaroPiano: Max LeakeGuitar:...

  • -
  • Mary Pappert School of Music
More About This Event
A saxophone player solos.

Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Workshop, and Jazz Vocal Ensemble

Mike Tomaro, Jeff Bush, and Kelley Krepin DeFade, directorsAdmission$10 Suggested Donation...

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  • Mary Pappert School of Music
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Percussion Facilities

You will have access to two percussion studios at the Mary Pappert School of Music. In addition, the Jazz Studio is equipped with a drum set.