Mannes is a unique place, one where you will receive intense technical training on your instrument from a faculty of renowned and revolutionary performers, who will also help you find your place in the landscape of contemporary music found in New York City.
Our percussion faculty includes a preeminent collection of musicians, active on the New York music scene. Study under artists like Maya Gunji, a timpani player in the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra. Or Joseph Tompkins, a member of the Orchestra of St. Luke's and a champion of new music who has performed with 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 Michael Werner, percussionist in Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and member of the Metropolitan Chamber Ensemble.
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 Mannes American Composers Ensemble, the College of Performing Arts Theater Orchestra, and the Mannes Percussion Ensemble, led by James Baker, Principal Percussionist of the New York City Ballet Orchestra and Conductor of the New York New Music Ensemble the Talea Ensemble. Train to win a position in the best orchestras in the world, as you gain the skills needed to start your own label, manage your own publicity, and create your own.
While studying alongside star faculty, learn to engage with the world through music. In our Bachelor of Music program, combine rigorous conservatory training with a range of complementary studies. Mannes's entrepreneurship courses give you the tools to make your own opportunities as an artist. With liberal arts electives at Lang and design electives at Parsons, learn how to make an impact through your art in new ways on a rapidly changing world.
As a graduate student in our Master of Music program, you'll take part in an elite two-year program focused on advancing all aspects of your musical study and performance skills. The broad range of performance opportunities prepares you for any career you can imagine as a professional artist.