CURRICULUM: Dr. Glenn Schaft coordinates the percussion program which is renowned not only for its innovative and broad based curriculum, but also for addressing students' unique career interests. Studio enrollment averages 15-20 majors whose curriculum includes Applied Percussion including private lessons, group lessons, & seminar class, Percussion Ensemble, and frequent guest artists who present clinics, masterclasses, lectures, recitals, and private lessons. Students may personalize their degree program via curriculum options such as drum set, keyboard percussion, contemporary music, or world percussion.
While providing a broad and comprehensive foundational education, the YSU Percussion Department also provided an inclusive and flexible approach to the individual. Creative limitations were never imposed and individual interests were encouraged, supported, and often integrated into the course of study. The department and its curriculum directly reflect the ideals of its director, Glenn Schaft: individuality, professionalism, adaptability, progressiveness, hard-work, rigorous self-assessment, and reinvention. Ron Coulter-YSU alum, Director of Percussion Studies, Southern Illinois University