Representing Delta State at the Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC) were student Savannah Tripp of Clinton, Miss.; Associate Professor of Music Dr. John Armstrong; and students James Cavallo of Southaven, Miss. and Derrick Williams of Ellisville, Miss.CLEVELAND, Miss.—Three Delta State University students were recently extended the opportunity to attend one of the world’s largest drum percussion events—the Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC).
The annual event features concerts, clinics, panels and presentations given by some of the finest artists from across the globe. The 2021 convention, hosted Nov. 10-13, showcased all areas of percussion, including drum set, marching, keyboard, symphonic, world, recreational, education, music technology, new music and health & wellness.
Representing Delta State were Percussion majors Savannah Tripp of Clinton, Miss., James Cavallo of Southaven, Miss. and Derrick Williams of Ellisville, Miss. The students were accompanied by Associate Professor of Music/Percussion and Assistant Band Director Dr. John Armstrong.
“This convention is the largest gathering of percussionists and drummers in the world with about 3,000 people in attendance,” shared Armstrong. “Our group of Delta State students had the opportunity to meet and network with many of these attendees from all over the nation and the world.”
While attending the conference, students received the opportunity to see some of the best performers in the percussive world and learn from some of the best teachers.
Highlights included seeing Sandbox Percussion, the Robert Glasper trio and Tommy Igoe.
In addition, students experienced the jazz vibraphone playing of Stephan Harris, Joe Locke, Joe Marsalis and Warren Wolf during an evening concert that celebrated the 100th anniversary of the vibraphone. They also witnessed the latest in percussion gear at the international percussion expo that featured many of the largest names in percussion manufacturing.
“One particular highlight the students loved was the interactive drumming workshop where they learned about the art of drum circle facilitation,” shared Armstrong.
This experience was made possible with through the generous support of the Music Student Enrichment (MuSE) campaign designed to raise funds to support the improvement of Delta State’s music programs and facilities.
To learn more about Department of Music, or to support the MuSe campaign, visit www.deltastate.edu/music.
