2025 Broadway Percussion Conference Participants (From Left to Right): Michael Huestis, Zhaoxuan, Kaitlyn Remorin, Elizabeth Helsabeck, Seven Swinford, Nava Gold, Ella Finley, Quinn Rasmussen, Kyle Roemer, Mary Bernabe, Eloise Roberts, Jasper Hughes
This summer, students from all over the world (as far as the Philippines!) once again returned to New York University for some Broadway magic with Local 802 musicians at NYU’s Broadway Percussion Conference, led by NYU Steinhardt Program in Percussion director Jonathan Haas. The conference continues to be one of the most incredible opportunities for talented percussionists to learn from some of the biggest names in the industry - through masterclasses, hands-on sessions, discussions, and unprecedented behind the scenes insights. Participants gain firsthand experience and expert mentorship from the most respected names in the field.
After a brief welcome session led by Jonathan Haas and Sean Statser, the group gathered for the first event: Broadway 101, presented by acclaimed percussionists Sean McDaniel and Charles Descarfino, both currently performing in the Broadway production Smash. With decades of combined experience, McDaniel and Descarfino offered participants an insider’s introduction to the world of Broadway percussion, drawing directly from their own journeys and current roles. This engaging and informative session gave students their first taste of what it truly takes to be part of a Broadway production. The duo explored a wide range of topics critical to the profession, including the role of a rehearsal drummer, the intricate process of building a percussion book, creating the percussion setup, moving into the theatre, developing and managing a reliable sublist, and the importance of playing with click and a conductor camera. The presenters also shared anecdotes from their own careers and practical tips for navigating the unique demands of life in a Broadway pit. It was a powerful kickoff that set the tone for the week ahead.
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