New York, NY (Top40 Charts/ Percussion Marketing Council) What would you think if someone like Chad Smith of the Red Hot
Chili Peppers came to your local high school to host a special percussion workshop and assembly for the students? That's exactly what happened on November 16, 2010 as a part of the Percussion Marketing Council's (PMC) "Percussion in the Schools" program. The PMC solicited music stores across the county to nominate a school district with an outstanding music department and a strong foundation in arts education.
From hundreds of nominations, Peters Township High School was chosen to host the Chad Smith Percussion in The Schools day based on a submission from U-ROCK
Music Center founder
Vincent Nemeth of McMurray, PA. Nemeth noted the school's excellent instrumental music program led by music director
Milton Barney.
"With over 200 students in the marching band alone, this is an extremely arts oriented school, with a lot of emphasis on the development of creative talents," Nemeth stated in his nomination submission.
The school was treated to both a general assembly and a master class for specially selected music students. Percussion author and educator Zig Waljer was also there to introduce students to an array of world percussion instruments, and Smith's love of music inspired the students as he beat out enthusiastic grooves on everything from the drum set to the marching percussion scattered about the band room.
To see more, check out video highlights and interviews from the event at youtube.com/wedrum.
Smith had a great message for all 1,500 students and faculty in attendance, regardless of their musical training. "Chad emphasized hard work and dedication to your passion in life," said Barney. "I hope that message remains in the minds of our students - daily focus, practice, and persistence leads to success. It was a good lesson for all of us!"
The event was a smash hit, and an inspiration to all of the students and faculty at Peters Township High. "All the kids told me how cool and personable Chad was," said Nemeth. "They could not believe they got to meet him, play along with him and participate in the event."
PMC is brewing up plans for another Percussion in the Schools event similar to this later in the year. Keep a lookout for the next big opportunity in a school near you. For more information on Percussion in the Schools and the Percussion Marketing Council, visit www.playdrums.com.
