Cello & Bass
Kansas City Youth Percussion Ensemble (KCYPE)
Metropolitan Conservatory is proud to host the Kansas City Youth Percussion Ensemble (KCYPE) onsite at our Overland Park Studio and Recital Center.
KCPYE is made up of several performing groups, including large ensembles, small chamber ensembles, and mallet percussion orchestras. The ensemble features a wide variety of percussion literature composed and/or arranged specifically for percussion instruments. With its rigorous practice sessions, captivating performances, and non-ending shenanigans, The KC Youth Percussion Ensemble is made up of a diverse group of young musicians who share a passion for percussion and an eagerness to perform. The ensemble is dedicated to providing its members with opportunities to grow both musically and as individuals. With a focus on hard work, and practical jokes the ensemble strives to create a supportive and collaborative environment that encourages each member to reach their full potential. Under the leadership of Keith Larson, past highlights of the ensemble include; performing for the National Conference of Percussion Pedagogy in Norman, Oklahoma, concerts with Kansas State University, Washburn University, and Mid-America Nazarene University, and various school tours and community performances.
Under new direction, the KCYPE is aiming to become a leading organization of youth and young professional education in the Mid-West by working with local big name performers and professors like; David Yoon (KC Sym), Von Hansen (Washburn Uni.), Helen Harrelson (Fountain City Brass Band), Bryan Busby (Weatherman), Svet Stoyanov (Miami Uni.). KCYPE has been invited to perform at the Kansas Day of Percussion (PAS), the Kansas Music Educators Association Conference, and and has been a 6 year participant at the Future Stages Festival at the Kauffman Center, and has been invited to participate in the Edeta Arts Percussion Festival, in Lliria, Spain in 2024 as part of UNESCO's Sister Musical City program.
Percussion Lessons
About Kevin Clarke
I was brought up in a long tradition of music education in Kansas City where a students music education and personal development are combined. Unlike the Fast Food "drive through" Model approach to Percussion lessons, each lesson is tailored to every different student, and I like to relate how what the student learns in my class relates to algebra, history, philosophy and literature. I also use music to teach students solid communication skills, and creative problem solving. Culminating in a bi-annual solo performance to build resistance to anxiety, and stress, and cultivating a level of comfort-ability while in the public spotlight. More than just learning drums and percussion we truly have a complete education in music and life long mastery skills.
I lived the dream life of many musicians, I spent 10 years playing as Principal Timpanist of a professional orchestra, but the greatest joy I had was guiding my students to college, and helping them understand who they are and what they want to be. I've had students receive full scholarships to college, and win major international prizes. I've also help students apply their talents to other areas such as foreign language learning, culinary arts, and mechanical engineering. I love watching my students learn and grow as if they were my own children, and having them feel proud about doing a job at the best possible level.
