CMS Alumni Percussion Ensemble Premieres Work by Composer Gary Gackstatter

Jake Page (Washington University), from left, Owen Woody (Indiana University), Michael Faris (CMS Director), Gary Gackstatter (composer), Jacob Deeter (Mizzou) and Logan Huyette (Mizzou)

Noted composer Gary Gackstatter was in attendance for the premiere of his arrangement of Rachmaninoff's Prelude in G Minor for Marimba Quartet on July 26 at the Community Music School (CMS).

The piece was performed by an ensemble of CMS Percussion alumni as part of the 5th Annual Summer Mood Percussion Series, directed by Michael Faris.

This newly crafted arrangement, dedicated to Faris and CMS Percussion, represents Gackstatter's fresh take on the beloved Rachmaninoff classic, reimagined for the rich, resonant voices of four marimbas. The piece is scheduled for publication later this year by C. Alan Publications, which has previously published other original works by Gackstatter.

The Summer Mood Percussion Series continues to showcase innovative programming that brings together established repertoire and new arrangements, creating unique musical experiences for both performers and audiences. The return of CMS alumni to perform this premiere demonstrates the lasting impact of the school's percussion program and the strong connections that endure beyond graduation.