Drumming News
The Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC) 2024, held November 13-16 in Indianapolis, broke its own attendance record as it hosted more than 6,300 drum and percussion enthusiasts from around the world.
Dubbed “The Greatest 4 Days in Drums & Percussion,” the convention brought together performers, educators, students, and percussion enthusiasts for a packed schedule of concerts, clinics, masterclasses, workshops, panels, and presentations representing many genres of music. There were performances from drumset, marimba, symphonic, marching, and world musicians. Multiple new music offerings had their debut. Experts led educational sessions on techniques, teaching, and professional practices. And recreational drum circles and “flash jams” had attendees making music all over the Indiana Convention Center.
PASIC 2024 also included the International Drum and Percussion Expo with vendors from more than 100 brands showing off the latest instruments, gear, music, and opportunities to get more involved in the world of percussion.
“We reached new heights at PASIC this year,” said Joshua Simonds, Executive Director of the Percussive Arts Society, which hosts the convention. “Sessions left audiences energized and inspired by unforgettable performances and you could feel the joy among attendees. From the concerts to the panels, every aspect of PASIC reflected the passion of our percussion community.”
PASIC 2024 kicked off with a concert by Antonio Sánchez & Bad Hombre and wrapped up with a concert by The U.S. Army Blues that featured notable guest drummers including Peter Erskine, Greg Hutchinson, and Mike Clark. Exciting performances throughout the convention included Will Calhoun of Living Colour, Q. Robinson from the Hamilton national tour, Jonathan Scales Fourchestra, Eriko Daimo and Pius Cheung, and RCC Indoor Percussion, in addition to dozens of artists from all areas of percussion.
Next year, the Percussive Arts Society will mark a major milestone when it presents the 50th PASIC. It’s expected to be the biggest and best PASIC yet, and will honor the event’s rich history, celebrate the opportunities it offers attendees in the present, and preview the exciting future of percussion. PASIC 50 will be held November 12-15, 2025, in Indianapolis.
