MAGNOLIA, Ark. – Southern Arkansas University’s Director of Percussion, Michael Britt, wrapped a three‑performance marimba tour of Pennsylvania by performing at the Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC) in Indianapolis. The tour, which began at the Heartland Marimba International Festival Orchestra in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, gave the SAU percussion studio a chance to showcase a five‑octave marimba on a national stage.

Tour highlights

From November 4‑8, Britt and his students performed with the Heartland Marimba Orchestra in Lancaster. According to the festival’s release, the ensemble will feature about 50 marimba players, led by founder Matthew Coley. The eight‑piece program includes works by Steven Simpson, Florence Price, Igor Stravinsky, Elijah Caligiuri, Jenni Brandon, Fritz Kreisler, Alexander Timofeev, and Sergiu Creu.

Over 7,800 musicians, students, educators and industry professionals from North America and 24 additional countries are expected to attend PASIC, which runs November 11‑14 in Indianapolis.

Director’s perspective

“I was already planning to take the SAU percussion studio to PASIC this year when I learned there might be an opportunity to perform at the convention with the Heartland Marimba Orchestra,” Britt said. “It’s a percussionist’s dream to perform at PASIC, but getting to share that moment with my students makes it even better.”

He added, “I’m just excited to represent SAU and play alongside some incredible musicians.”

About Michael Britt

Britt holds a bachelor’s degree in music education from Murray State University and a master’s degree in percussion performance from the University of Minnesota. A Kentucky native, he serves as director of percussion and associate director of bands at SAU.

Heartland Marimba’s mission

Heartland Marimba focuses on small towns and underserved communities, aiming to promote the classical marimba through outreach, education, new repertoire and professional opportunities. Since its founding, the ensemble has given more than 200 concerts, published over 80 works and commissioned more than 30 pieces, continuing the legacy of Clair Omar Musser, the legendary marimbist who led a 100‑piece marimba orchestra at the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair.

Looking ahead

Following PASIC, Britt and his students will return to SAU to continue building the university’s percussion program, bringing the experience and connections gained from the tour back to Magnolia’s students and community.

Original reporting: KATV Little Rock (local) — read the source article.