“What an amazing show! You are so talented and so much fun to watch. I have never seen our students react so positively to a concert here before. Your ovation was definitely deserved.”
- Lea-Anne Greene-Smith, Music and Dance Department Head, Mayfield Secondary School (Regional Arts Program School)

 

TorQ is committed to helping further music education in schools across Canada.  Too often, the percussion section is the most marginalized section of a school ensemble; since percussion instruments are among the easiest on which to get an initial sound, percussionists are often left to fend for themselves while assistance is being given to other instruments.  This can lead to boredom and lack of engagement, especially if the music consists mostly of "boom-chick-boom-chick"!

One of TorQ's goals as an ensemble is to share the incredible variety and vitality of percussion.  By performing percussion-only solo concerts, TorQ hopes to encourage young percussionists (and other musicians) to become more engaged in music, and to learn to seek out other musical experiences.  To that end, TorQ is delighted to offer both solo school concerts and workshop/masterclass opportunities to elementary and high schools.

TorQ Solo Concerts

TorQ solo concerts are designed to appeal not only to the percussionists in the school band but to all the students; whether or not they play an instrument, they are sure to be excited by a TorQ performance.  A school solo concert is typically 45-50 minutes in length, followed by  a 10-15 minute Q&A session.  Repertoire can be catered to individual needs; typical repertoire includes Steve Reich's Drumming Part I, a mallet quartet, some traditional percussion ensemble music (e.g. John Cage's Third Construction) and a high energy finale, all with brief commentary.

Stage requirements are minimal:  all that is needed is clear space of at least 20ft by 20ft, preferably raised, and with good lighting.  TorQ makes use of many different instruments over the course of a concert, therefore we require at least 90 minutes setup time, and 45 minutes teardown time.   Fees are negotiable based on repertoire, geographic distance from Toronto, and the inclusion of masterclasses or lessons.

TorQ Masterclasses, Workshops and Lessons

Masterclasses, workshops and lessons can be catered to individuals, percussion sections or entire ensembles.  Topics can include ethnic music (e.g. Ghanaian drumming), trends in contemporary/percussion music (e.g. music of Reich or Cage), and percussion technique basics and/or ensemble playing. We are more than happy to work with you to develop a presentation that suits the specific needs of your students. Fee is dependent upon the nature of the event, and can be negotiated in combination with a solo concert performance.

TorQ would be happy to discuss any requirements you may have and work out a program to fit the needs of your school.

Please visit our media page to download some sample educational workshop handouts.