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Pete Zambito
Pete Zambito is the Associate Teaching Professor of Music and Assistant Director of Athletic Bands at the University of Missouri. He previously taught at Lincoln University (MO) and Concord University (WV). He is the creator and host of the show “Pete’s Percussion Podcast,” which has presented weekly episodes since 2016. He has performed extensively throughout the United States. He is also a commissioned composer of percussion works, many of which are available through C. Alan Publications. Dr. Zambito holds a B.A. degree in piano performance from Wake Forest University, and M.M. and D.M.A. degrees in percussion performance from UNC-Greensboro. His writings have been published in Percussive Notes and Rhythm Scene, he is currently a member of the PAS Health & Wellness Committee, and he contributes frequently to the National Conference on Percussion Pedagogy. His first solo CD, Marimba, was released in 2014.

Student Health and Well-Being in Percussion: How Can We Help?

Health & Wellness
ClinicLive

The mental well-being of students is a cornerstone of academic and artistic success. However, the unique stressors of music programs often create a "perfect storm" for burnout. Based on recent research involving percussion students and wellness professionals, this session explores the timing, symptoms, and solutions for the mental health challenges facing today’s student-musicians.

The Landscape of Student Stress
Our study reveals that 81.8% of students experience their greatest mental health hurdles during the end of the Spring semester, with the end of Fall (63.6%) and mid-semester peaks (54.5%) following closely. These struggles manifest not just as "stress," but as:
• General agitation and restlessness (72%)
• Decreased interest and engagement (63.6%)
• Disrupted eating and sleeping patterns (45.5%–63.6%)
Despite the availability of free resources, 50% of surveyed students had never utilized these services.

From Reactive to Proactive: A Teacher Toolkit
Instructors are often the "first responders" in a student’s academic life. This session provides concrete, actionable steps to bridge the gap between students and support:
• Mapping Resources: How to build a comprehensive guide to services that distinguishes between free and fee-based support.
• Resource Ambassadors: Strategies for bringing wellness professionals into the studio to demystify seeking help.
• Early Habit Formation: Techniques for encouraging self-care during low-stress periods to build resilience for finals.
• Low-Barrier Advocacy: Small gestures, like providing snacks or organizing "resource tours," that signal a culture of care.
Join to discuss how we can empower students to seek help before challenges become overwhelming, ensuring their musical development is supported by a robust foundation of well-being.