The percussion faculty at Mannes includes a preeminent collection of musicians who are active on the New York music scene. Study under artists like music champion Joseph Tompkins, who has performed with the New York Philharmonic, the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, and other major ensembles. Or take courses with Glen Velez, multiple GRAMMY® Award winner and founding father of the modern frame drum movement. Our faculty also includes New York City Ballet’s principal percussionist, Jim Baker, GRAMMY®-nominated ensemble Sandbox Percussion's Ian Rosenbaum, Jonny Allen, Terry Sweeney, and Victor Caccese, and Metropolitan Opera Orchestra percussionist Michael Werner.
With New York City as your classroom, you'll find ways to jump-start your career from the moment you set foot on campus. Play at landmark venues like Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall. Collaborate in cutting-edge performances as a part of our many ensembles, including the Mannes American Composers Ensemble and the Mannes Percussion Ensemble, led by James Baker. Train to win a position in the best orchestras in the world as you gain the skills needed to start your own ensemble, produce your own album, manage your own career, and create your own groundbreaking work.
While studying alongside star faculty, learn to engage with the world through music. Combine rigorous conservatory training with a range of complementary studies in our Bachelor of Music program. Mannes' entrepreneurship courses give you the tools you need to create your own opportunities as an artist. With liberal arts electives at Lang and design electives at Parsons, you learn how to make an impact on a rapidly changing world in new ways through your art.
As a graduate student in our Master of Music program, you'll take part in an elite two-year program focused on developing all aspects of your artistry as you prepare to start your career as a professional musician.