Sandbox Percussion Summer Seminar
Now Enrolling: Discover Parsons spring courses and summer intensives.
About This Program
Sandbox Percussion is thrilled to celebrate the Summer Seminar's 11th year with a celebration of composer Steve Reich's 90th birthday. This year's intensive will culminate in a collaborative performance of Drumming—performed by all participants alongside the members of Sandbox Percussion. Throughout the week, participants will engage in daily rehearsals, coachings, and workshops, studying one of the most influential works in the percussion repertoire from the inside out.
In addition to Drumming, participants will be placed in chamber music groups to rehearse and perform works not only by Steve Reich, but also by the many composers who have drawn inspiration from his groundbreaking musical language. These ensembles will rehearse for several hours each day, closely guided by Sandbox Percussion as they explore rehearsal techniques, collaborative processes, and creative discourse.
To deepen this experience, each group will receive intensive coaching from all four members of Sandbox Percussion throughout the week. Participants will also take part in "sit-in" sessions, where Sandbox members join their ensembles to rehearse, experiment, and offer hands-on insights into chamber music communication.
The week also includes evening masterclasses and discussions with Sandbox Percussion, focusing on both the artistic and pragmatic sides of sustaining a professional chamber ensemble. The final concert will feature a complete performance of Drumming as well as chamber works prepared by all participant groups.
Applicants may apply individually, and pre-existing chamber groups are welcome. If applying as a pre-existing chamber ensemble, each individual member must complete an application form. Please also include a list of all group members, as well as any additional information you would like to share about your group.
Observation Pass
We are delighted to offer an Observation Pass for the Summer Seminar, open to everyone of all ages—from students to hobbyists to professionals. Observation Pass participants will be able to observe all performance classes, Sandbox Percussion masterclasses, and guest artist seminars. They will also be given priority seating at the final Seminar concert on June 15, 2026.
Format: On-site
Dates: June 9–15, 2026
What You'll Gain
- Concentrated group percussion coaching
- In-depth knowledge of contemporary percussion repertoire
- Immersive performance experiences
- Supplemental classes with practicing artists
How You'll Learn
- Direct interaction with Grammy-nominated Sandbox Percussion members
- Collaboration in small group settings
- Rehearsals towards final performances
Schedule and Location
June 9–15, 2026
Arnhold Hall, 55 W 13th StreetNew York, NY 10011 (map)
Tuition and Registration
Tuition and Fees
- Tuition and fees (Seminar): $1,100 + $45 fee
- Tuition and fees (Observation Pass): $300 + $45 fee
- University credits: This is a noncredit program.
Seminar Application Process
Please note that students must be at least 16 years of age by June 1, 2026 in order to participate in the Summer Seminar.
Deadlines
- February 28, 2026: Early Decision
- April 30, 2026: Regular Decision
All students must submit an application below and will be required to provide the following:
- Written or selfie-style video response (approximately 250 words OR a 1-minute video) explaining why you want to come to the Sandbox Percussion Seminar, what you are hoping to learn, and what you are hoping to share.
- Three links to recordings (preferably video) of yourself playing:
- One solo on a mallet instrument
- One contrasting piece of your choice, on an instrument of your choice
- One additional chamber music performance consisting of 2-8 players including yourself
PRE-EXISTING ENSEMBLES: A list of all group members (NB: each member must submit an application form), as well as any additional information you would like to share about your group.
Observation Pass
Observation Pass participants should complete the Observation Pass Interest Form. Once reviewed, follow-up information will be provided to complete registration.
Requirements
Please note that students must be at least 16 years of age by June 1, 2026 to participate in the Summer Seminar.
Observation Pass is open to anyone of all ages.
Housing
Housing is available to Seminar and Observation Pass participants ages 18 and older for an additional fee. Please indicate your interest in housing on the application form.
Refund Policy
Tuition is non-refundable.
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