Description

Whidbey’s Saratoga Orchestra Presents: Percussion on the Rock – A Celebration of Rhythm and Culture

Whidbey Island, WA – July 2025 – Whidbey’s Saratoga Orchestra invites the community to feel the beat with Percussion on the Rock, a dynamic two-part musical celebration that blends global rhythms, community participation, and professional artistry. The event includes a free Community Drum Circle on Thursday, July 24, and the exciting Percussion World Music Festival concert on Saturday, July 26.
 

The culminating event of the workshop series, the Percussion World Music Festival, takes place at the Oak Harbor Methodist Church (1050 SE Ireland Street). This free concert features workshop participants performing alongside internationally acclaimed percussionists, including:

• Dr. Patrick Roulet – Western Washington University

• James Culley – Cincinnati Conservatory of Music (retired)

• Paul Hansen – Seattle-based percussionist (5th Avenue Theatre, Pacific Northwest Ballet)

• Erica Montgomery & Brandon Nelson – Saratoga Orchestra percussionists

Audiences will enjoy an exciting cross-cultural musical journey featuring both Ghanaian and Western percussion traditions.

Admission to both events is free, with donations encouraged to support the educational and outreach programs of Whidbey’s Saratoga Orchestra.
 

What: Percussion on the Rock – Community Drum Circle
When: Thursday, July 24 at 5:30 PM
Where: Pop-Up Plaza, Pioneer Way & SE Dock Street, Oak Harbor, WA
Admission: Free

What: Percussion on the Rock – Percussion World Music Festival
When: Saturday, July 26 at 1:00 PM
Where: Oak Harbor Methodist Church, 1050 SE Ireland Street, Oak Harbor, WA
Admission: Free (Donations encouraged)