This issue of Percussive Notes celebrates the upcoming 50th Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC) in Indianapolis, marking a milestone in the organization’s history. It highlights the diverse range of performances, clinics, and artists across various percussion styles, emphasizing the community’s passion and innovation. The publication also recognizes the dedicated individuals behind the scenes who ensure the success of PASIC, fostering a sense of celebration, reflection, and forward-looking excitement for percussion enthusiasts of all levels.

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As you turn the pages of this issue of Percussive Notes, it can only mean one thing: the countdown to PASIC is officially on. This special PASIC Preview edition is designed to give you an inside look at the incredible talent and innovation that will be on display at our upcoming convention. It’s a chance to hear directly from and about the artists who inspire us all — a sneak peek at the excitement to come. This issue signals the convergence of percussionists from every corner of the globe, all making their way to Indianapolis for the year’s most anticipated percussion event.

When we arrive in Indianapolis, a city that feels like a second home to so many of us, we’ll be celebrating an important milestone: the 50th Percussive Arts Society International Convention. This incredible 50-year journey is a testament to the strength of our community and the tradition we’ve all had a hand in building. This is our chance to both reflect on our history and honor the countless individuals who have brought us to this moment. Ultimately, these 50 years represent our collective progress and provide a sense of stability and forward momentum for the future of PAS and our art form.

This year’s convention is more than just an important landmark; it’s a culmination of everything that makes PAS so vibrant and unique. We’ve brought together an exceptional lineup of artists, clinicians, and exhibitors who will share their passion and expertise. You’ll find a bustling exhibit hall filled with the latest gear from your favorite brands, and you’ll experience a wide variety of performances and clinics that span the entire percussive world, from marching to symphonic, drumset to world percussion, and everything in between. The curated schedule honors our rich history while also looking forward to the future of percussion. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a student, or a devoted hobbyist, there will be something for you to learn, experience, and celebrate.

For half a century, PASIC has been the premier event for drummers and percussionists, and our 50th convention promises to be the most memorable yet. In this issue, you will read about drumset artists Dafnis Prieto and Nikkie Glaspie, marching percussion groups the Santa Clara Vanguard and The Hellcats, and you will hear directly from keyboard artists Ji Hye Jung and Stefon Harris. This is only a sampling of the contents of this issue and the vast lineup in store at PASIC50. Beyond the concerts and sessions, remember that PASIC is also an opportunity to reconnect with old friends, make new connections, and immerse yourself in the art form we all love.

As we look forward to this incredible event, I also want to take a moment to thank the dedicated individuals who make all of this possible. The PAS staff, Executive Director Joshua Simonds, the Board of Directors, the Board of Advisors, the Past Presidents, and countless volunteers give their time and energy behind the scenes to ensure that our organization continues to thrive. Their commitment is the bedrock of our success, and we owe them a debt of gratitude for their tireless work on behalf of our percussion community.

I look forward to celebrating this historic occasion with all of you. Whether you have attended for years or this will be your first PASIC, prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience.

See you in Indianapolis!
Thad Anderson
President, Percussive Arts Society