The University Percussion Ensembles

The Percussion Ensembles at A&M-Commerce are dedicated to performing a variety of percussion ensemble literature. These groups perform standard percussion ensemble pieces, contemporary literature, keyboard ensembles, rags, classical transcriptions for keyboard, and jazz or pop arrangements. In addition to performing a concert each semester, the ensemble is dedicated to furthering percussion education in the North East Texas area. This is achieved through many exhibition performances outside of the University. The Percussion Ensemble performed with Brian Zator, Director of Percussion, at the 2005 TMEA Convention.  In addition, they traveled to Lawton, OK and performed a joint concert with Cameron University in 2005 and have several tours planned for the spring of 2006.

See our repertoire

The "PANIMATION" Steel Drum Band

The University Steel Drum Band offers students a chance to add a multi-cultural aspect to their college education. The band is currently comprised of ten sets of pans, drumset, hand drums and many accessory instruments. In addition to performing a concert with the University Percussion Ensemble every semester, the Steel Drum Band is in high demand to perform outside the University. Many social organizations and schools in the North East Texas and Dallas/Ft. Worth areas delight in having Panimation perform for their enjoyment. 

A&M-Commerce Drumline

The A&M-Commerce Drumline is one of the top-performing ensembles of its kind in the country. As an integral part of the "Pride" Marching Band, the drumline performs at football games, exhibitions, and area, state, and national marching band competitions such as Bands of America and the Texas UIL State Marching Contest.  In addition to their regular schedule, the drumline performs exhibitions to further percussion education and recruitment in the state of Texas as well as the fall Percussion Ensemble concert.

Winter Drumline

The Winter Drumline offers students an opportunity to improve their skills on marching percussion instruments, while giving them exposure to other instruments.  Additionally, the Winter Drumline serves as an educational opportunity for area high school students, allowing them to rehearse and perform with collegiate performers while receiving high quality instruction.

Other Ensembles

Besides Percussion Ensembles, there are a number of performance opportunities with other musical groups. The university ensembles include Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Jazz Band, and the "Pride" Marching Band. Also, percussionists can perform in the North East Texas Symphony Orchestra, the A&M-Commerce Chorale, and various chamber groups on and off campus.