Join us this summer for the tenth edition of the TorQ Percussion Seminar!  TPS2024 is an opportunity for university-level percussionists to come together for an intense but rewarding week of rehearsals, discussions, masterclasses, creation and performance, under the direction of Richard Burrows, Adam Campbell, Jamie Drake and Daniel Morphy of TorQ Percussion Quartet, and featuring special guest artists Ray Dillard and Dr. Jill Ball.  For the first time, we are partnering with the Don Wright Faculty of Music at Western University, an incredibly well-equipped facility in London, Ontario.   

The core of the TPS experience is ensemble rehearsal. Each participant will be part of multiple ensemble pieces that will be rehearsed throughout the week; that rehearsal process will culminate in a finale concert at the Paul Davenport Theatre at Western University. While exact repertoire choice is still being finalized (as we try to pick pieces that will best challenge the participants), expect a focus on contemporary composers, both Canadian and international, as well as some compositions by TorQ members.  

Each day will begin with morning round-table discussions about topics such as chamber music repertoire, self-promotion, concert logistics, musician health and much more. Master classes are also an integral part of the TPS experience, and TPS2024 will have multiple opportunities for participants to showcase either solo or pre-formed ensemble works.  

As you can tell, the TPS schedule will keep you pretty busy while you’re here! At the same time, we want to encourage a sense of community among participants and faculty, so we'll plan some gatherings outside of the rehearsal hall as well. 

Here’s what past participants have to say about their experience at TPS:  

"Attending the TorQ Percussion Seminar had a profound influence on my development as a percussionist. I was exposed to the incredible variance that percussion ensemble music has to offer and having the chance to work with one of Canada’s foremost percussion ensembles is tantamount to none. Not only do you get to connect with TorQ themselves, but with other like-minded percussionists across Canada. Working closely and intensely in the way TPS is run was something I had never experienced before, even in my schooling, and it helped me dig in and learn more than I thought I could about chamber music. The things I learned influence my teaching, my chamber coaching and my performance to this day. I hold so many great memories from my experiences and still think about the very first time I performed Steve Reich’s Drumming, at my first TPS. This seminar is the only thing of its kind in Canada and is such a valuable program." - Nia Devetsis (Alberta)

“TPS was a great opportunity for me to work on chamber music in a fantastic environment while also learning about music and musicians of the Canadian contemporary music scene. Rich, Adam, Jamie and Dan taught me a lot!” -Tim Roth (Manitoba/Ontario)

"TPS was such an awesome experience that I had to do it three times! It's really an incredible opportunity to put together chamber music in a fast-paced and supportive environment. I would definitely recommend this program for any collegiate level percussionist looking for some fun and challenging music-making this summer!" - Yang Chen (Ontario)

Application Information

As part of your application to TPS2024, you'll need to submit the following materials:

  • Cover letter
  • Reference Letter
  • C.V./Resume - please include a current repertoire list with your C.V.
  • Audio/video files or links to some recent performances - live performances preferred

There is no "audition" process to get into TPS2024, but we want to make sure we understand what level everyone is at so that we can challenge you and choose repertoire appropriately.  The audio/video links are a great way for us to get a quick understanding of where you are on your percussive journey!

If you have any questions about this part of the application (or if you require accessibility accommodations of any sort), please don't hesitate to drop us an email:  tps@torqpercussion.ca. 

Financial Information

Tuition to TPS2024 is $700 CAD.  Tuition is payable to TorQ Percussion Quartet. 

We are pleased to announce that Yamaha Canada Music is generously offering four $250 scholarships to offset the cost of tuition.  To be considered for a scholarship, please fill out this form.  You will be asked to include a short essay (max 500 words) about (a) what you hope to gain by coming to TPS, (b) the musical areas in which you'd most like to improve and (c) what aspects of percussion (instruments, repertoire, genres - anything!) you are most excited by right now. Scholarship application deadline is May 1, or until all spots have been filled, and applicants will be notified of the results by early June.

Accommodation

Accommodation in Western University residences is available to TPS participants.  Please contact tps@torqpercussion.ca for more information and pricing.  Students are also welcome to find their own accommodation in London.  Please note that you are responsible for your own transportation while at TPS.

Registration deadline is MAY 1, 2024.

Ready to apply?  GET STARTED HERE.

Questions about TPS2024? 

Get in touch at tps@torqpercussion.ca!