Drum roll please.
For the first time, Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s (KPU) music department is hosting a girls only percussion workshop this Saturday, March 3 as part of the larger highly-anticipated annual Day of Percussion.
Taking place at KPU Langley, this event celebrates the world of percussion and will feature clinics and performances by local and internationally recognized artists. For musicians and music enthusiasts south of the Fraser, it’s an excellent opportunity to take in educational clinics and hear innovative performances close to home.
“This year, we’re hosting our first-ever girls only percussion workshop – an event that’s entirely necessary and long overdue, said Daniel Tones, KPU music instructor and event organizer.
The girls only event will be led by one of Canada’s leading percussionists Beverley Johnston, and features a safe and secure environment for girls and young women to talk about what it’s like to break into the male-dominated field of percussion. Johnston has spent 40 years forging new ground as a performer and educator. Aside from speaking with her and hearing her perform, participants will receive coaching on their own technical and musical development.
“Beverley, a roster of other celebrated artists, as well as our outstanding faculty and students will captivate the interests of professionals and music enthusiasts alike,” said Tones. “I often think back to my years growing up in Maple Ridge, and I just didn’t have musical opportunities like this. That’s all changed. KPU’s music program is growing, becoming more widely known and is bringing exceptional talent to the south Fraser region.”
Tones himself is an award-winning percussionist who has performed across the globe as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral percussionist. His recent performances have been at the Barbican (London, UK), the BEAST FEaST (Birmingham, UK), the Ojai Music Festival in California and the Banff Summer Arts Festival.
In addition to Johnston and Tones, the workshops will features Vancouver’s Fringe Percussion drum set artist Joe Poole, as well as student ensembles from KPU and UBC.
“KPU music is creating opportunities for education and performance that would normally only exist in Canada’s big cities,” said Dr. Diane Purvey, dean of KPU’s arts faculty. “That’s how we’re changing the face of education. Our music department is for the new millennium, and we’re here to share an exceptional event with the community.”
The Day of Percussion is open to anyone who has an interest in music, including high school and post-secondary students, teachers, and music enthusiasts of all ages. The event runs from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information on the event and to purchase tickets, visit https://2018dayofpercussion.brownpapertickets.com/. Tickets will also be available at the door for cash purchase only.
Day of Percussion
WHEN: Saturday, March 3, 2018, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
WHERE: KPU Langley (20901 Langley Bypass, Langley, B.C.)
INFO: Tickets are $20 general admission, $10 for students and seniors and are available for purchase online and at the door (cash only.)
Please note, the girls only percussion workshop takes place at 10:30 a.m.
Photos for Beverley Johnston and Daniel Tones are available on Flickr.