On Jan. 24, the Sagamore Middle School Music Department hosted a percussion clinic for the district’s middle school percussion students. The percussion students and band directors from Samoset and Seneca Middle Schools joined those from Sagamore for an exciting morning of clinics and performances. The event, which aimed to inspire this select group of students, took place from 8:30 to 11 a.m. Special thanks to Dr. Patrick Armann from Sagamore Middle School for organizing the event for our students.

This special event started with a clinic lead by Sachem’s very own Dr. Dylan Benson. Dr. Benson teaches at Nokomis Elementary School and is a seasoned percussionist and clinician who also helps coordinate the SCMEA Day of Percussion. This inspiring and motivational clinic provided an overview of percussion methods, technique and NYSSMA solo preparation, along with how to prepare and maintain students’ equipment appropriately.

Following the clinic, the Queens College Percussion Ensemble performed, highlighting various styles of percussion literature. The college students shared their practice techniques and approaches to learning various musical styles. This energetic performance included a variety of instruments in the percussion family which captivated Sachem’s middle school percussionists. A fun-filled, musical morning was had by all!

Sagamore Middle School will host the annual SCMEA Day of Percussion on Feb. 2 from 3:30 to 9 p.m. Percussion students from all over Suffolk County are encouraged to attend this special event featuring informative clinics, guest artists, and the opportunity to perform in a massed snare drum ensemble! More information on the SCMEA Day of Percussion may be found here: https://www.scmea.org/festivals/scmea-day-of-percussion

Date Added: 1/25/2024