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Rhythm in Shapes, with the University of Kansas Percussion Group

  • 1900 Building 1900 Shawnee Mission Parkway Mission Woods, KS, 66205 (map)

Circles and chops, squares and triangles, a rhombus or a parallelogram….? Music is really just a combination of shapes strung together in a line, some big and some small, some loud and some soft. Whether played by an individual or a group, as a performer and listener we follow these lines from beginning to end on a journey of rhythm, harmony, and melody.

Join The University of Kansas Percussion Group (KUPG) on a journey through shapes, exploring different timbres and musical ideas found in the sounds of marimbas, drums, metals, pieces of wood, and maybe even a table or two…. As a group, this is a culmination of a year of rehearsing, performing, and learning, from amazing young percussionists found just down the road! Come hear the music of Viet Cuong, Steve Reich, Alejandro Viñao, Thierry de Mey, and more, diving into the linear motion of shapes

The University of Kansas Percussion Group is the leading chamber percussion ensemble of the KU School of Music, dedicated to exploring contemporary works and highlighting the artistry and versatility of its percussion students. As part of KU’s diverse percussion program, KUPG emphasizes collaboration, artistic expression, and technical excellence, helping students become innovative and self-directed musicians. Guided by expert faculty specializing in chamber music, world percussion, and jazz, students develop both technical mastery and the critical thinking skills needed to shape the future of percussion. Beyond KUPG, the percussion area offers a variety of ensemble experiences, including West African Drumming, Steel Drums, Taiko, Drumline, and Samba. Through engaging performances and a commitment to musical growth, KUPG prepares its members to be creative musicians, educators, and leaders in the field.