Member, Board of Directors

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Third Coast Percussion (TCP) is a Grammy Award-winning Chicago-based percussion quartet. For over fifteen years, the ensemble has created exciting and unexpected performances that constantly redefine the classical music experience. It has been praised for "commandingly elegant" (New York Times) performances, the "rare power" (Washington Post) of their recordings, and "an inspirational sense of fun and curiosity" (Minnesota Star-Tribune). TCP’s percussionists met at Northwestern University and since then have become known worldwide for their leadership in new music.

The quartet performs throughout the United States and internationally across 4 continents and has recorded 13 albums. The band members are known for their ability to engage audiences, performing with a wide range of instruments and a broad repertoire of iconic works by composers like John Cage and Steve Reich to those composed by the quartet themselves.

In addition to a busy schedule of performing, TCP is committed to expanding the percussion repertoire - commissioning and collaborating are a main stay of the organization. Commissioned composers include Philip Glass, Augusta Read Thomas, Missy Mazzoli, Devonté Hynes, Gavin Bryars, Donnacha Dennehy, and David T. Little. Collaborators have ranged from Glenn Kotche and Chicago Children’s Choir to Hubbard Street Dance Chicago and Lil Buck and John Boogz. TCP is also vested in composers who are still early in their career with a program called Currents.

TCP is also passionate about music education, teaching students in K-12 and the college level. At the K-12 level, programs have been created to introduce the building blocks of music, composition, and the intersection of music and sound with engineering, science, math and technology. Master classes are taught at highly acclaimed music conservatories throughout the US; TCP has had residencies at the University of Notre Dame and Denison University.

Several key initiatives are at the heart of TCP. Diversity, equity & inclusion is at the forefront, wanting the voices of composers and collaborators in projects to reflect the broad range of backgrounds and experiences of audience members. Metrics are now in place to ensure DEI goals are met. After successfully managing through the past 18 months of the pandemic, the quartet and staff are leveraging the success found in the digital environment with the gradual return of in-person performances and teaching. And continuing to build strong funding sources is critical to allowing the organization to thrive and be at the fore front of the new music world.

The TCP Board Member is responsible for: being a champion of the organization in the community; applying professional knowledge and expertise to the organization; supporting the financial health of the organization through personal giving and networking; and attending quarterly board meetings in an engaged and thoughtful way. Each member serves on at least one committee that is aligned with expertise and interest level.

A candidate for a Board Member must bring a passion for the arts, and preferably new music. He/she/they will bring relevant professional experience of at least 5 years. Being able to meet the requirements of the board (fundraising/giving, meeting attendance, committee participation) are essential. The candidate will be engaged; excited to participate in and add value to an organization; highly responsive to peer board members, the quartet and the staff; and respectful and appreciative of others. Living in the Chicago area is not required. In keeping with the DEI goals, TCP is committed to building a diverse and equitable board.