Percussion Ensemble presents educational programs at area schools
The MSUM Percussion Percussion Ensemble, directed by Dr. Kenyon Williams, performed their annual educational program/performances at three local schools this past week. These annual performances at area elementary schools are highly sought-after by area music educators and principles who vie to book them on their campuses. This year’s program, entitled “World Music Celebrations!,” featured music of the MSUM steeldrum ensemble “Fuego Tropical,” Indonesian music from the MSUM Kyai Madu Murni Gamelan, drumming and dancing from West Africa, and a wide variety of audience participation and interaction designed to educate area students about music and cultures from around the world!
Each presentation includes a teacher’s packet filled will concepts from a wide variety of disciplines (including science, history, music, and creative writing) created by Williams and designed for K-6 educators to use in the classroom to help prepare their students for the event. As one elementary principle wrote in 2009: “We’ve had BMX stunt riders come to our school, but I’ve never seen our students pay attention, and ACTUALLY LEARN SOMETHING like they did at your performance! That was easily one of the best assemblies we’ve ever had. Thanks for coming!”