The State University of New York at Fredonia Percussion Ensemble, under the direction of Dr. Kay Stonefelt, won First Place in the Open Small Ensemble category at The Education Africa Virtual International Marimba and Steelpan Festival held Dec. 5 through 13.

Fredonia School of Music percussionists Brian McDougal, Thomas Cobb, Joshua Bellis, Brendan Ryan, and Reilly Brouillard performed “Gravity” by Marc Mellits (with special edit by Mr. Mellits to meet competition time limits). Watch their performance at https://youtu.be/Sc9OO4JJLHg?t=3205

In addition, percussionist Johnny Viviani won First Place in the category of Solo Marimba (over 19 years old). Watch Johnny’s solo marimba performance of Bach and Abe” at https://youtu.be/Sc9OO4JJLHg?t=1588 .