KoSA offers a comprehensive approach to the development of the individual performer and the continuation of learned teaching skills.  Although participants choose specific areas of emphasis, the curriculum is designed so that each participant is immersed in all areas of instruction.
 

KoSA ELEVEN / PRELIMINARY COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

DRUM SET:  JAZZ, LATIN, ROCK, HIP HOP AND FUNK - Every aspect of classic and contemporary application of drum kit technique and performance will be explored.  Specifics are presented in hands-on classes.

POP & COMMERCIAL PERCUSSION - This track explains how percussion is used in the context of today's music industry-both live & in recording and broadcast studios.

CUBAN RHYTHMS AND TECHNIQUES - The rhythms and technique of Cuban music, traced from their African roots to modern concepts will be presented at all levels.

NORTH AFRICAN & ARABIC STYLE FRAME DRUMMING - Learn the subtleties that create timeless styles of world hand drumming.  Explore the techniques of performing on such instruments as the Egyptian Riqq, Tar Drum and the Bodhran.

JAPANESE TAIKO DRUMMING - The Japanese tradition of Taiko, an extremely athletic and disciplined percussion art, will be presented on all levels.

AFRO-COLOMBIAN DRUMMING  - Explores authentic rhythms of Colombia and their performance on drumset and percussion instruments.

ELECTRONIC PERCUSSION & MUSIC TECHNOLOGY - An exploration of the latest electronic percussion and drums:  Includes working with loops & sequencers along with the latest software programs as well as using the computer as an extension of the creative process. 

WORLD MUSIC, RHYTHM CONCEPTS AND IMPROVISATION - An engaging study in  rhythm concepts from around the world.  Concepts of improvisation will be explored in the various  instruments and tracks.

ORCHESTRAL PERCUSSION - A total immersion in the history, theory, and performance of timpani, snare drum techniques, mallet instruments and percussion ensemble.

AFRICAN DRUMMING AND DANCE: participants will explore traditional West African rhythms, djembe techniques as well as traditional African dances and movement as they relate to the rhythms.

AUSTRALIAN  DIDGERIDOO - Learn the art of performing on this incredible sounding indigenous percussion and wind instrument.

MARIMBA PERFORMANCE & JAZZ VIBRAPHONE - A special track of marimba techniques, literature and performance will be taught as well as jazz improvisation on the vibraphone.

RHYTHM SECTION  PERFORMANCE LABS - All programs include performance classes with the KoSA Rhythm Section and evaluation by the instructors.  This experience will also be open to instrumentalists other than percussionists.

MUSIC READING AND CHART INTERPRETATION CLASSES - Learn the essential language of music and music notation from the KoSA faculty.

SPECIAL "Percussion for Band Directors and Music Educators"  TRACK - A special non-performance track has been designed for band directors and music educators wishing a total hands-on percussion experience with the top experts in the industry.  Classes for this group will include classical, drum set, latin percussion, Indian, African, Japanese & music technology labs.