What's on

Microphones as sonic microscopes  
A hands-on workshop lead by musician, recording engineer and producer Dr Alistair McLean exploring ways to use microphones as part of your percussion performance practice. We will look at different methods of using microphones in live performance and studio environments, to amplify quiet instruments, bring out different textures and explore spatial sound ideas. Guaranteed to be ear and eye opening, and full of practical and creative ideas for all percussionists.

Solo performance masterclass
Extraordinary percussionist Niki Johnson will demonstrate a range of musical, technical and creative performance techniques through performance and discussion. In this session, up to three students will be invited to perform and workshop solo vibraphone, marimba or multi pieces in open masterclass format, providing student percussionists with valuable feedback on solo repertoire to assist with your exam, recital, and audition preparation and presentation. This class is suitable for secondary and tertiary level students. If you would like to perform, please email nicole.johnson@monash.edu with your name and proposed repertoire by 4pm on 20 April 2026.

Conga Technique, Sound, and Style
Salvador Persico specialises in Afro Cuban conga playing and technique. In this session, the expert Salvador will cover basic strokes and patterns for playing congas so you can make a consistently great sound when you play. This will involve how to safely play the instrument using the correct techniques for teachers and students. We will also cover how the various sounds and motions blend together to create a Tumbao pattern – the foundation of conga grooves!

Mallet clinic
Percussionist and composer Robert Cossom will present a session focussed on mallet instruments, techniques, and performance practices, drawing on his professional experience as a performer in the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, as a chamber musician, and soloist. This session is ideal for any preparing solo or ensemble mallet repertoire for recitals, exams, or concerts in 2026.

Taiko workshop
A hands-on taiko experience led by Japanese dance and taiko professional Sayaka Ohno. In this session, participants will learn about taiko technique, style, rhythms, and history through a series of activities. A great opportunity to try taiko under Sayaka’s guidance, to experience the music and movement of this exciting percussive artform.

Drumkit clinic: Applied Rudiments: Applying rudiments to the drum kit to inspire new ideas
One of Australia’s leading popular music drummers Gerry Pantazis shares insights on drumming technique, style, and offers ways to apply them to your drumming. This clinic is suitable for drummers of popular music, jazz, contemporary and beyond.

Concert!
A highlight of the Day of Percussion, not to be missed! Featuring special guest artists together with performers from the Monash undergraduate and postgraduate percussion studios, this exciting concert will showcase a vast range of creative percussion music. Listen to the gentle grooves of Marc Mellits’ mallet quintet, marvel at the range of percussive sounds that 3 pairs of hands can produce in Thierry de Mey’s Musique de Tables, and experience the joy of percussion ensemble collaboration through new music by Monash students Ye Chen and Alex Aidt, alongside favourites by Gareth Farr, Ivan Trevino and much more.

Informal questions and conversation
All are welcome to chat one-to-one with faculty and students during this time. Ask about our undergraduate and postgraduate courses in percussion, our audition process, explore the many ways to connect with percussion at the Sir Zelman School of Music through a Bachelor of Music, our range of double degrees, music electives and other majors, have a look around our facilities, or just say hi to students or staff to talk percussion because we love it.

Schedule of activities and events

All sessions 50 minutes.  
Participants are asked to please vacate each room between sessions to allow presenters time to setup.

2026 DAY OF PERCUSSION

Sunday 3 May 2026, 12.45-5.30pm

Doors open at 12:30pm

REGISTER HERE