About John

John R. Beck, Professor of Percussion at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, also teaches at Wake Forest University. He is the principal percussionist of the Winston-Salem Symphony and is a member of the Greensboro Symphony, Brass Band of Battle Creek, and the Philidor Percussion Group. A former member of the United States Marine Band, for 10 years he performed regularly with the National and Baltimore Symphonies, Washington and Baltimore Operas, and the Theater Chamber Players of the Kennedy Center. Beck has toured the United States as a xylophone soloist with the Jack Daniel's Silver Cornet Band, Brass Band of Battle Creek, and the New Sousa Band. John is a Past President of the Percussive Arts Society and presents clinics endorsing Yamaha percussion instruments, Zildjian cymbals, Innovative mallets, and is a Remo Endorsed Drum Circle Facilitator in the Health and Wellness community.

What former students say about study with John R. Beck

“It became clear from day one that I was working with a professor who was dedicated to helping me achieve my professional and artistic goals. He fostered a caring environment in his studio, where all backgrounds and experiences were not only respected and observed, but cultivated and encouraged!”

– Jason MM

 “The percussion program at UNCSA prepared me for the range of opportunities a percussionist has in today's professional community including orchestral playing, drum set styles, solo performances, and cross disciplinary collaborations. Mr. Beck had a strong commitment to my success as a student, evident in his assistance in preparing me to win the school concerto competition as well as personally transporting a marimba across the state for another of my concerto appearances.”

– Scott BM

“Even more valuable, in my mind, is the level of thoughtfulness and preparation Professor Beck puts into his work, both his teaching and in running the operations of the program. These are the types of skills that translate across many areas in life, and having Professor Beck as a teacher has given me one more exemplar of professionalism on which to model myself.”

– Christian HS

“As an Instructor Mr. Beck's approach was always practical and centered around appropriate preparation to achieve outstanding musical execution.” – Abdullah MM

“What I appreciated most about Mr. Beck’s teaching style was his determination to create well-rounded percussionists.”

– Shawn BM

“Mr. Beck helped me take the skills learned in my previous training to a new level and provided new insights to approach music not only from a technical standpoint, but also intellectually. Using his knowledge from his years of experience as a professional musician, Mr. Beck instilled in me the ability to perform in all situations in the most professional manner.”

– Alex MM

“My experience in the percussion program was incredibly positive; it was wonderful in the fullest sense. Mr. Beck pushed all of us to take our studies seriously, provided endless opportunities to grow and learn, and facilitated a deep camaraderie amongst the studio and with his students that persists nearly a decade later. It was a wonderful, wonderful experience for me and my peers.” – John HS

“John R. Beck's experience and thoughtfulness were immensely helpful in my college application process.” – David HS

Philidor Percussion

PAS

PAS Mission - To inspire, educate, and support percussionists and drummers throughout the world.

John R. Beck is a past president of PAS. The Percussive Arts Society is the largest percussion organization in the world. The annual international Convention is attended by over 5000 percussionists each year. For information on PASIC and PAS click the button below.