A Troy University student placed fifth in the Great Plains International Marimba competition at Oklahoma City University over the summer.
Jacob Ammons, a senior music major from Niceville, Florida, traveled to compete alongside students from across the United States, Taiwan, New Zealand and China. Out of all the college students to place, Ammons was the only undergraduate student selected.
“Jacob’s accomplishment is unrivaled and provides continued international recognition of the award-winning percussion studio within the Troy University John M. Long School of Music,” said Adam Blackstock, a professor of percussion at Troy University. “Jacob’s countless hours of practice and preparation have propelled him to the pinnacle of performance achievement.”
After learning how to play trombone in elementary school, Ammons switched to playing primarily percussion instruments in middle and high school. Since coming to Troy, he’s participated in many of the University’s bands, including the Sound of the South marching band, symphony band, jazz band and others.
Ammons started playing the marimba in middle school and picked it up quickly.
“I was able to play the marimba pretty easily because of prior knowledge with the piano,” he said. “I took piano lessons growing up, and because of the instrument’s similar layout, it translated well.
“By the time I got to college, I switched my [marimba] technique up, and I could play with four mallets instead of just two. I practiced as much as possible to hone my skills.”
Ammons said many people he encounters are interested in the marimba, and others don’t know anything about the unique instrument, which is reminiscent of a xylophone.
“It’s pretty common to get a ‘what is a marimba’ question,” Ammons said. “I’ve found that a lot of people are more interested in percussion instruments, so it’s a good door to open to get a conversation started.”
Blackstock told Ammons about the competition, and after preparing two pieces for the pre-screening round, he moved on to the in-person round. Along with attending masterclasses from experienced professors, he was able to connect with other marimba players.
“I got to meet a very wide range of people,” he said. “Especially since I was the only undergrad student in my division, it was cool to meet them and learn about their undergrad experiences.”
Ammons said he plans on getting a graduate degree to continue studying music.
“I am very proud of Jacob and have full confidence that this successful endeavor will be the first of many,” Blackstock said.
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