Biography
Christopher Wilson is a rising percussionist who specializes in the marimba. As a performer he has entertained audiences around the U.S. with an extremely wide and varied repertoire. One of his main goals has been to introduce not only the marimba, but also classical music to audiences who are unfamiliar with it. This has often included performances in public settings outside of the concert hall.
As an in demand educator, his schedule is filled with residencies and workshops on all areas of percussion, and for many age ranges. He is also an experienced educator at the secondary level, coaching sectionals, teaching lessons, and teaching drumlines. As a collegiate instructor, Mr. Wilson is active in humanities, mostly teaching music appreciation to non-music majors.
Mr. Wilson has also reached audiences through writing and the use of online tools. He has had articles published by Percussive Notes and on Drumchattr.com, as well as on his own blog. His blog is also home to the online show “The Marimba Progression Project.” On this program he explores topics in pedagogy, composition, and performance practice.
An avid supporter of new music, Mr. Wilson has commissioned and premiered many pieces for the marimba. These have included works by Dr. Jonathan Middleton, Brian van Winkle, and Anthony Donofrio.
Mr. Wilson earned a Masters degree from The Boston Conservatory and a Bachelors degree from Eastern Washington University. While in Boston he studied exclusively with marimbist Nancy Zeltsman. He is a sponsored member of Pearl Drums’ Regional Education Arts Program. Wilson currently lives in Wisconsin with his wife, bassoonist Jacqueline Wilson.
Click here to view Wilson's Curriculum Vitae
-What is a marimba?!-
The marimba is a large wooden keyboard that is the
premier solo instrument of the percussion world. It is played with mallets, often times two in each
hand.
The following websites include excellent introductions to the marimba, including details on the history
of the instrument:
Nancy Zeltsman's website
Marimba.org
