Dr. John Wooton
Lee’s Percussion Ensemble will hold its spring concert on Tuesday, April 12, at 7:30 p.m. in Pangle Hall.
The program includes multiple works by Dr. John Wooton along with one piece by Edward Freytag.
“This program is unlike anything we have ever done before,” said Dr. Andy Harnsberger, director of the Percussion Ensemble. “Whereas we usually perform from a classical repertoire, this will be a pop-oriented show, and it promises to be a fun, enjoyable concert for everyone.”
Dr. Wooton is the director of percussion studies at The University of Southern Mississippi. He performs vibraphone for the Southern Mississippi Jazz Quintet and leads his professional steel band “Kaiso!” playing steel pans. Since joining the faculty at Southern Mississippi, he has introduced the Southern Miss Steel Band, Pop Percussion Ensemble, Samba Band, and Salsa Band.
“Dr. Wooton is one of the best in the world at what he has done in the marching percussion area,” said Dr. Harnsberger.
Student musicians playing in the concert are Robert Acevedo, Anna Betts, Dillon Finnell, RJ Hammonds, Paul Hayes, Travis Hicks, Caitlin Jones, Jordan McClain, Ivan Trac, Laud Vaught, and Alex Wingo. Richard Henson will assist the group and Mr. Freytag will premiere as a guest drummer.
The Percussion Ensemble performs challenging and interesting percussion literature, involving a wide variety of percussion instruments. The group, composed of percussion majors, has rapidly developed a reputation for musical excellence and expertise, said officials.
Dr. Harnsberger, an assistant professor of music at Lee, earned his Doctorate of Musical Arts in performance and literature at the Eastman School of Music located in Rochester, N.Y. In addition to teaching and directing, he is active as a freelance percussionist and recitalist. He also presents workshops and masterclasses at universities throughout the year.
The concert is free and everyone is invited to attend. For more information, contact the Lee School of Music at 614-8240 or visit music@leeuniversity.edu.