Feel the Beat: PASIC Celebrates its 50th Anniversary
Drum roll, please. This week, the Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC) will celebrate its 50th anniversary in Indianapolis. From Nov. 12-15, thousands of drummers, percussionists, educators, and music industry professionals will come to Indy for what is considered the largest drum and percussion event in the world. Get ready to feel the beat, as PASIC 50 features groundbreaking performances, insightful clinics, and an extensive expo hall.
Hosted by the Percussive Arts Society, a non-profit music service organization based in Indianapolis, PASIC highlights all areas of percussion: drum set, marching, keyboard, symphonic, world, recreational, education, music technology, new music, and health and wellness. This year’s convention includes a performance from Matt Billingslea, who plays for Taylor Swift, and a clinic by Omar Hakim, who has played for Miles Davis, Michael Jackson, Daft Punk, David Bowie, Bruce Stringsteen, and Queen Latifah. Legendary drummer Dave Weckl will also be in attendance.
PASIC 50 isn’t just for professionals, though. Anyone can register for the conference, and children ages 10 and under get in for free with the purchase of an adult registration. The public also has the opportunity to attend two musical performances. On Thursday, Nov. 13, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra is partnering with PASIC 50 for a one-night-only program featuring world-renowned artists Michael Burrit and Ivan Trevino on marimba. The performance begins at 6 p.m., and tickets start at just $15.
The public is also invited to Inuksuit. This unforgettable outdoor show at White River State Park will feature more than 150 performers from the Iñu Yupiaq Dance Group. Specifically designed to be performed outdoors, Inuksuit encourages you to walk among the performers and discover your own personal connection to sound and nature. Inuksuit starts at 1:15 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15 and is free to attend.
From unforgettable concerts to immersive outdoor performances, PASIC 50 celebrates five decades of rhythm, creativity, and community. Whether you’re a drummer, a music lover, or simply curious about the power of percussion, this milestone event invites you to experience the energy that has kept PASIC in perfect rhythm for 50 years.
