Mississippi State University’s Percussion Ensemble will collaborate with various other groups to perform its traditional fall concert at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 5 in Lee Hall’s auditorium. This eclectic mix of performances and performers will be offered free to anyone interested in experiencing a truly original production with numerous musical genres. Shows are headed by MSU’s associate professor of music Robert Damm.
Damm has taught at MSU for seven years and has collaborated with many different musical groups to produce several concerts.
A percussionist artist himself, Damm first organized the annual fall concert in November of 1995 because of his love for multicultural music.
“I have a real appreciation for multicultural interests,” Damm said. “It’s my passion as a percussionist to learn about music from different areas of the world and to then apply them in my teachings as well as my own recitals.”
At the Nov. 5 concert, Damm promises a very broad spectrum of musical interests.
“There will be music representative of Japanese tradition, Native American tradition, African tradition, Caribbean Calypso music, some pieces that are influenced by the troupe Stompe and a great improvisational piece by our ensemble using homemade instruments,” he said.
To execute such a wide range of musical pieces, the MSU ensemble will collaborate with the Starkville High School Steel Band, the Starkville Martial Arts Academy and flute soloist and MSU professor, Dr. Lana Johns.
In the past, the ensemble has collaborated with the university choir, the Black Voices choir and has even included a blues band in the mix.
Organizing and directing a concert of such magnitude, Damm said he does not have much downtime. The ensemble cast begins preparations on the first day of school for the yearly event.
“We typically have 10 students from all different fields of study and interests, so I begin by evaluating their individual talents, then tailoring a music program for them and ultimately combining all the elements to produce what we hope to be a successful and entertaining concert,” Damm said.
With the responsibility of educating the students during preparation for the event, Damm deems it necessary to relate his experiences and knowledge of music while continually challenging the students to progress in their own studies of music.
“I purposely make assignments so that my students are challenged in learning to play new instruments,” he said. “It is my duty as an artist and educator to do so.”
Damm is able to share his experiences as both a solo and duet performer with his students, and performing his own recitals gives his students a chance to see his teachings exemplified.
“A week after the Nov. 5 concert, Dr. Johns and I will hold our own recital,” Damm said. “It helps the students to see their professor practice what he preaches.”
Damm would like to encourage everyone, young and old, to come and enjoy the concert.
“The concert is not limited or targeted to any one age group,” he said. Anyone with a musical interest should come and have a good time and hopefully learn something.”
The concert is free to everyone, and students and townspeople are encouraged to come.