Synergy Percussion is a renowned Australian classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their unique and innovative performances for over 40 years. The ensemble was founded in 1974 by four percussionists, Michael Askill, Greg Sheehan, Colin Piper, and Jon Rose, who shared a passion for exploring the possibilities of percussion music. The founding members of Synergy Percussion were all accomplished musicians in their own right, with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Michael Askill was a classically trained percussionist who had studied at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music and had performed with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. Greg Sheehan was a self-taught percussionist who had traveled extensively and had a deep knowledge of world music. Colin Piper was a jazz drummer who had played with some of Australia's top jazz musicians, and Jon Rose was a violinist and composer who had studied in Europe and had a keen interest in experimental music. Together, the four musicians formed Synergy Percussion with the aim of exploring the possibilities of percussion music and pushing the boundaries of what was possible with the instruments. They began by performing in small venues around Sydney, playing a mix of classical, jazz, and world music. Their performances were well received, and they soon gained a reputation for their innovative and exciting approach to percussion music. Over the years, Synergy Percussion has undergone several changes in membership, with new members joining and old members leaving. However, the ensemble has always maintained its commitment to exploring the possibilities of percussion music and pushing the boundaries of what is possible with the instruments. Some of the main members of Synergy Percussion over the years have included Timothy Constable, Bree van Reyk, Joshua Hill, and Rebecca Lagos. Each of these musicians has brought their own unique talents and perspectives to the ensemble, helping to shape its sound and direction. One of the highlights of Synergy Percussion's career was their performance at the 2000 Sydney Olympics opening ceremony. The ensemble was chosen to perform a specially commissioned piece by Australian composer Peter Sculthorpe, which was broadcast to an estimated 3.7 billion people around the world. The performance was widely praised for its innovative use of percussion instruments and its evocative and powerful sound. Synergy Percussion has also performed at many other major events and festivals around the world, including the Edinburgh Festival, the Hong Kong Arts Festival, and the Adelaide Festival. They have collaborated with many leading composers and musicians, including Philip Glass, Steve Reich, and John Cage. In addition to their live performances, Synergy Percussion has also released several albums over the years, showcasing their unique sound and approach to percussion music. Some of their most notable albums include "Reich: Drumming", which features their interpretation of Steve Reich's seminal work, and "The Pulse", which showcases their own original compositions. Synergy Percussion has received many awards and accolades over the years, including several ARIA Awards (the Australian equivalent of the Grammy Awards) and the prestigious Don Banks Music Award. They have also been recognized for their contributions to the development of percussion music in Australia and around the world.

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