Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Concerto

 

Percussion Group 72 is a classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their unique and innovative performances for over four decades. Founded in 1972 by four percussionists, the group has since expanded to include a variety of instruments and has become one of the most renowned percussion ensembles in the world. The founding members of Percussion Group 72 were Cloyd Duff, Richard Weiner, Michael Rosen, and Anthony Cirone. All four were accomplished percussionists who had studied at the Cleveland Institute of Music and had performed with various orchestras and ensembles. They came together with the goal of exploring the possibilities of percussion music and pushing the boundaries of what was traditionally considered "classical" music. From the beginning, Percussion Group 72 was known for their innovative approach to percussion music. They were one of the first ensembles to incorporate electronic instruments and found objects into their performances, and they were also known for their use of unconventional playing techniques and extended techniques. Their performances were often theatrical and visually stunning, with the percussionists moving around the stage and interacting with each other and the audience. One of the group's early highlights was their performance at the 1976 Olympics in Montreal, where they played a piece called "Olympic Fanfare" that was composed specifically for the occasion. The performance was broadcast to millions of viewers around the world and helped to establish Percussion Group 72 as a major force in the world of percussion music. Over the years, the group has continued to push the boundaries of percussion music and has collaborated with a wide range of composers and performers. They have premiered numerous works by contemporary composers, including John Cage, Steve Reich, and Philip Glass, and have also worked with jazz musicians, dancers, and visual artists. One of the group's most famous collaborations was with the rock band The Who, with whom they performed at the 1989 Grammy Awards. The performance, which featured a medley of The Who's hits arranged for percussion ensemble, was widely praised and helped to bring percussion music to a wider audience. In addition to their collaborations and performances, Percussion Group 72 has also been recognized with numerous awards and honors. They have won multiple Grammy Awards, including one for Best Chamber Music Performance in 1987, and have been inducted into the Percussive Arts Society Hall of Fame. They have also been featured in numerous documentaries and television programs, including a PBS special called "Percussion Group 72: The Art of the Percussion Ensemble." Despite their many accomplishments, Percussion Group 72 has remained committed to their original goal of exploring the possibilities of percussion music and pushing the boundaries of what is possible. They continue to perform and collaborate with a wide range of artists, and their influence can be heard in the work of countless percussion ensembles around the world.

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