The Rhythm Makers

Minnesota Orchestra percussionists Brian Mount, Jason Arkis and Kevin Watkins have comprised the section for over 20 years, a collective milestone that shines through in the synchronicity with which they play together. In our latest feature for our digital broadcasts, This Is Minnesota Orchestra, we zoom in on one of the most adaptable and inventive sections of the ensemble, which is closely connected to the neighboring timpani section headed by Erich Rieppel. You’ll see them use creative solutions for achieving sounds required in specific works–tape, towels, violin bows and much more. They dive into the many roles of percussionists within the Orchestra, how they accomplish the difficult tasks of adding color, timbre and texture, and why collaboration is essential in what they do.