As a timpani and percussion student at CIM, you'll enjoy an intensive performance environment focused on two symphony orchestras under the guidance of principals from The Cleveland Orchestra. In addition, you’ll be involved in percussion ensemble, new music ensemble and additional ensemble options through our relationship with Case Western Reserve University.

Weekly lessons guide you in studying the fundamentals of technique, developing sight-reading and musicianship skills and learning repertoire. You will also have the opportunity to explore world music percussion and drumming techniques.

Alumni Success

Meet Eric Shin

CIM Alumnus Eric Shin, Principal Percussion at National Symphony Orchestra

Eric Shin was appointed principal percussionist of the National Symphony Orchestra in 2012. Previously, he was acting principal percussionist of Detroit Symphony and principal percussionist of Honolulu Symphony. He has also performed with the Chicago Symphony, Los Angeles Philharmonic, The Cleveland Orchestra, Houston Symphony, San Diego Symphony, Hong Kong Philharmonic, Ojai Music Festival and many others. Shin received his bachelor's degree from CIM as a student of Richard Weiner and Paul Yancich. Upon graduation, Shin was awarded the Bruce Collie Award for percussion excellence at CIM.

Percussion Alumni Include

  • Timothy Adams, Percussion Area Chair, University of Georgia
  • Curt Armbruster, Principal Timpanist, The United States Air Force Band 
  • James Babor, Percussionist, Los Angeles Philharmonic
  • Fredrik Björlin, Co-principal Percussionist, Gothenburg Symphony
  • Matthew Bassett, Principal Timpanist, Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra
  • Jay Burnham, Principal Timpanist, Alabama Symphony Orchestra
  • Alexander Cohen, Principal Timpanist, Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
  • Jeffrey DeRoche, Percussionist, The United States Navy Band
  • Jeremy Epp, Principal Timpanist, Detroit Symphony Orchestra
  • David Fishlock, Principal Percussionist, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra

Concerts and events

Mar 20 Wed
7:30 pm
Insiders: She-e Wu
Faculty Recital, Concert Series
Apr 25 Thu
7:30 pm
Percussion Studio Recital
Percussion, Studio/Department Recital, Conservatory Student Recitals, Concert Series
Apr 28 Sun
7:30 pm
Percussion Ensemble Concert
Chamber Music Performance, Concert Series