PAS Ecuador Day of Percussion

Our recent percussion events in Ecuador were highly successful, highlighted by a full Percussion Day organized in collaboration with the Escuela de Artes Sonoras at the Universidad de las Artes. The schedule featured a robust series of concerts and masterclasses, including sessions led by Grammy-winning drummer Mark Walker.

The educational programming covered a diverse range of specialized topics. Carlos Bravo presented on the 40 official PAS rudiments, focusing on the transition from technique to musicality, while Mark Walker detailed the four essential languages of the drumset. Andrés Figueroa and A Groove Supreme led a session contrasting tempo and meter, and Jorge Vega covered basic conga fundamentals and rhythmic patterns. Regional traditions were highlighted by Orlin Montaño, who explored the rhythmic foundations of Música Cimarrona in Afro-Ecuadorian percussion. Additionally, Sergio Reggiani traced the influence of the clave across folklore, Latin, jazz, and rock music, and Luis González presented on the historical development of the timpani.

Beyond the Percussion Day curriculum, we presented additional concerts and educational activities in connection with International Jazz Day, hosted at both the Quito Jazz Club and the Universidad de las Artes.

The response from both students and the public was excellent. Ultimately, these educational and artistic activities served as a meaningful step forward in strengthening the visibility and presence of the PAS Ecuador Chapter.