The Francis Marion University Percussion Ensemble is a contemporary chamber ensemble that explores the world of percussion from an improvisation-based approach. We model our performance methodology and musical ideology on the performance practice of drummer/composer Max Roach’s percussion ensemble M’Boom, especially in their focus on jazz and non-Western musical cultures as a touchstone for aesthetic inspiration. We employ improvisation as a key mode of praxis—both in terms of theory and practice—and special focus is given to compositions invented during collective improvisation exercises. Additionally, we explore “minimalism,” “game,” and “open score” notation/compositional systems, while also examining the ways in which poetry and literature can be interpreted in a musical setting.

Dr. Brian Jones

Events

Upcoming events

Apr 15, 2026

FMU Percussion Ensemble Performance 2026 · Francis Marion University Performing Arts Center

Past events

Nov 19, 2025

FMU Percussion Ensemble Performance · Francis Marion University Performing Arts Center

About

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