Contributed by Dr. Meggie Aube
Upon returning to Alaska after 5 years of graduate school in Iowa, Meggie Aube decided to start her percussion teaching studio in Palmer. This fall marks the five year anniversary of business for the Percussion in the Valley studio. The studio has undergone much growth and many changes over the years, with its humble beginnings in the garage of Meggie’s parent’s house.
The studio officially began on September 22, 2011 when it opened its doors to the first student, Samuel Sturgis. Samuel was a beginning drum student at the time and was only 7 years old. Samuel was a very dedicated student who regularly practiced and showed up to lessons. He is still a member of the studio and has participated in 3 Percussion in the Valley summer camps.
Since the studios inception in 2011, the studio has grown to more than 30 active students throughout the year. Many more students of all ages have also participated in summer camps, drum workshops and group classes. Even more drum enthusiasts have participated in summer drum jams, marching in Colony Day parades and drum clinics held at the studio.
The Percussion in the Valley studio has truly became a center for percussion education and performance opportunities in the Mat-Su Valley! Through Percussion in the Valley, students of all ages, from children to adults, have been able to experience the joy of making music.
The months of September and October will bring some very fun and educational opportunities to help celebrate the milestone anniversary. The very popular Community Drum Workshop September series will be held on 3 consecutive Saturdays, September 10th, 17th, and 24th. These workshops are for adult students to learn how to play hand drums in a group setting while learning grooves from around the world. The Community Drum Workshop October series will be held in conjunction with Arkose Brewery in Palmer who is also celebrating their 5th year anniversary this fall. This three week workshop will meet on October 15th, 22nd, and 29th. Participants will learn how to play drums while also enjoying a wonderful Arkose creation.
To celebrate the 5th year anniversary with the entire community, a studio open house with food, drinks and music will take place on Friday, September 16th at 6:00 pm at the Percussion in the Valley Studio. The studio is located at 832 S. Colony Way in downtown Palmer. The open house will include performances by students, an open drum jam and food to enjoy. All are invited to celebrate!
For information on any of these events, please contact Dr. Meggie Aube at 907-631-8079 of percvalley@gmail.com. You can also visit the website for more information: www.percussioninthevalley.com.