Percussion

Percussion produces sound when struck, shaken, or scraped, like drums, cymbals, and maracas, providing rhythm and texture in music.

Played by:

John Molo on:

• The Way It Is (album)
• Scenes from the Southside
• Night on the Town (album)
• Harbor Lights (album)
• Hot House
• Spirit Trail
• Greatest Radio Hits

Jeff Gerson on:

• Scenes from the Southside

Lamont Coward on:

• Harbor Lights (album)

Derwin Cox on:

• Hot House

Larry Sears on:

• Hot House

Matt Chamberlain on:

• Spirit Trail
• Greatest Radio Hits

Shawn Pelton on:

• Spirit Trail

Bonnie Bonaparte on:

• Here Come the Noisemakers
• Big Swing Face (album)
• Halcyon Days (album)

Bruce Hornsby on:

• Absolute Zero (album)

Chad Wright on:

• Flicted

History of percussion

The history of percussion instruments dates back to ancient civilizations, where they were often used in rituals, ceremonies, and celebrations. Some of the earliest known percussion instruments include hand-held drums, rattles, and sticks.

• Ancient cultures: In cultures such as those in Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Africa, various forms of percussion were used in religious ceremonies and community gatherings. Drums made from animal skins stretched over hollow logs or clay were prevalent.
• Medieval and Renaissance: During the medieval and Renaissance periods in Europe, percussion instruments began to be more refined. Timpani were introduced in orchestras, and a variety of hand-played drums, tambourines, and other instruments emerged.
• Modern era: The 19th and 20th centuries saw the development of a wide range of percussion instruments, including the drum kit, marimba, vibraphone, and various types of ethnic percussion. The rise of jazz, rock, and pop music led to new styles of drumming and innovative percussion techniques.
• Cultural influences: Throughout history, different cultures have contributed to the development of percussion instruments, from African djembe and balafon to Latin American congas and cajón. This diversity has enriched global music traditions.

Notable persussion players

Numerous percussionists have made significant contributions to music across genres:

• Buddy Rich: A legendary jazz drummer known for his exceptional speed and technique, Buddy Rich’s influence on jazz drumming is profound. He worked with numerous big bands and had a successful solo career.
• Elvin Jones: A key figure in the development of modern jazz drumming, Elvin Jones was known for his work with the John Coltrane Quartet. His innovative use of polyrhythms and dynamic playing style set a new standard in jazz.
• Carmine Appice: A rock drummer known for his work with bands like Vanilla Fudge and Rod Stewart, Appice is credited with popularizing the use of the drum kit in rock music. His powerful style and energetic performances have inspired countless drummers.
• Tito Puente: Often referred to as the “King of Latin Music,” Tito Puente was a master percussionist known for his work with salsa and mambo music. His contributions to Latin percussion and jazz have had a lasting impact on the genre.
• Alyssa “Aly” Dyer: A modern percussionist, Aly Dyer is known for her work in diverse genres and innovative performances that incorporate various percussion instruments, expanding the possibilities of contemporary music.

Percussion instruments play a crucial role in music, providing rhythm, texture, and dynamics. Their rich history, cultural diversity, and evolution through the centuries have established them as an essential part of musical expression across genres. As percussion continues to evolve, it remains a vital element of music-making, inspiring both musicians and audiences worldwide.