Centered on the “total percussionist” philosophy toward the vast world of percussion, Henry Eichman’s strengths lie within solo, chamber, and orchestral music, but he is constantly inspired by elements of popular music, jazz, world music, and other musical styles. He is an aspiring college educator, currently pursuing a DMA in Percussion Performance at Michigan State University. Prior to entering MSU, Henry completed his Master’s degree at the University of Minnesota Duluth, and Bachelor’s degree at West Chester University in West Chester, Pennsylvania.
While living in Minnesota, Henry was a section percussionist with the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra and Percussion Manager of the Twin Ports Wind Orchestra. Recently, he placed second in the Modern Snare Drum Competition at the Cleveland Institute of Music, and had the privilege of performing with the All-Star International Percussion Ensemble at the Percussive Arts Society International Convention in San Antonio, Texas. In Pennsylvania, he was highly involved in entertainment work, playing in strolling musical ensembles at Hersheypark (Hershey, PA) and around the Pennsylvania/New Jersey area with the found-sound percussion group, JUNK ROCK.
In recent years as an educator, Henry has gained valuable experience as an elementary and high school student teacher, private lesson instructor, marching band instructor, and graduate teaching assistant. His teaching philosophy aims to keep students’ goals at the center, and foremost, to help them develop a personal and rewarding connection with music. He is beyond excited to share the excitement of percussion music with students at the Jackson Community Music School.