A SFCM student percussionist playing the marimba
  1. Areas of Study
  2. Percussion

Time begins with rhythm.

Find your rhythm with the best in the business.

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Percussion students study side-by-side with both current and former members of the San Francisco Symphony. Small studio sizes and talented, committed peers make SFCM percussion a hothouse for artistic growth. We ensure that each student gets the mentorship and performance opportunities they need to develop into successful professionals.

Faculty

Personal instruction from master percussionists.

SFCM and Opus 3 alliance
SFCM changed global music education in 2020 by acquiring management company Opus3 Artists, home to over 250 top musicians. Masterclasses, recording sessions, and side-by-sides with members of the Opus 3 roster are only the beginning of our work together to invent the future of performances.
SFCM 50 Oak inside

VISITING THE CAMPUS

We’re waiting to show you around.

We look forward to your visit! Contact the Office of Admissions to take a tour of our facilities. Better yet, contact a faculty member directly to arrange a consultative lesson.

SFCM students in classroom

AUDIT A CLASS

Get a feel for the curriculum.

We've saved a seat for you. During your visit to SFCM, sit in on a class or two and see what it's like to be a student at the Conservatory.

Percussion performance

DEGREES AND PROGRAMS

Qualify yourself for the future.

Detailed curricula are available for all percussion programs at SFCM.

News Stories

What's happening at SFCM?

SFCM fall 2022 Performance Schedule
News Story

SFCM Announces Fall 2022 Schedule of Live Performances

"Music for 18 Musicians" performed at SFCM in 2021.
Eighth Notes

A Minimalist Classic, a Maximal Send-Off for SFCM Grad

masterclass, percussion, sfcm, jake nissly, ed stephan
News Story

Bach: The Jazz Boss You Never Knew?

Percussion performance closeup

ENSEMBLES

Play well with others.

Performance opportunities abound at SFCM. Ensembles range from small, dedicated chamber groups to the Conservatory Orchestra. As a percussionist, you’ll have the opportunity to play with many different groups.

Upcoming Events

Experience SFCM for yourself.

bass clarinet
Monday, June 12, 2023

Bass Clarinet Intensive Faculty Recital

Student playing a bass clarinet
Friday, June 16, 2023

Bass Clarinet Intensive Closing Recital

Join us. Overachievers welcome.

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More about the application process ›

Other Areas

Your roommate might be studying ...

Keyboard

Historical Performance
String Chamber group in a classroom rehearsing

String and Piano Chamber