On December 1, 2025, the Music Department of Beijing Normal University–Hong Kong Baptist University held a masterclass entitled Exploring the World of Percussion at CC105. The session was delivered by Associate Professor Wang Xiaojing from the Department of Orchestral Instruments at the Xinghai Conservatory of Music, with faculty members and students from various academic backgrounds in attendance.

The masterclass opened with a discussion of the fundamental question of what defines percussion instruments, followed by an overview of their classification, musical functions, and roles within the Western classical music tradition. Drawing on his experience in teaching and performance, Assoc. Prof. Wang focused on the timpani as a representative instrument, tracing its historical development from the Baroque period to its role in the modern symphony orchestra. The session also addressed differences in sound production associated with various types of timpani mallets.

The presentation then moved to topics closely connected to performance practice. Assoc. Prof. Wang introduced the construction and preparation of timpani drumheads, explaining how material choices and treatment methods influence tonal characteristics. Practical considerations related to instrument maintenance and tuning were also discussed, offering insight into technical aspects encountered in rehearsal and performance settings.

Throughout the session, performance recordings were used as reference materials. Selected musical examples were presented to illustrate how percussion instruments function across different musical styles and ensemble contexts, helping participants better understand their role within overall musical structure.

The masterclass further addressed issues commonly raised by students, including pathways for percussion study and professional development. Topics included entrance preparation, key stages of formal training, and potential career directions in performance, teaching, and related fields.

Following the completion of the main presentation, Assoc. Prof. Wang conducted one-to-one coaching sessions with marimba students from the Music Department. Based on individual performances, he provided focused demonstrations and guidance on technical execution, tone control, and musical expression, using repertoire-specific examples to support hands-on instruction.

By combining structured explanation, recorded examples, and individual coaching, the Exploring the World of Percussion masterclass examined multiple aspects of percussion practice within contemporary music education and performance, supporting the Music Department’s ongoing efforts in professional exchange and teaching activities.

Written and edited by Sienna Wu