November 9, 2011
Mallethead series returns with special guest drummers
Tom Collier, director of percussion and jazz studies at the University of Washington, brings back his popular Mallethead series this academic year with a trio of percussion-centered programs featuring distinguished guest drummers of international renown.
Alex Acuña
The series kicks off at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 18 at the Meany Studio Theater with a performance spotlighting guest drummer Alex Acuña, who achieved acclaim in the 1970s through his work with jazz fusion group Weather Report as well as many other well-known artists and ensembles.
Acuña was born in Pativilca, Peru – a small coastal village 100 miles north of the capital city of Lima, Peru. A self-educated musician, he was inspired by his father and brothers (all of whom were musicians). By the time he turned 10, he was already playing in local bands. As a teenager, he was one of Peru’s most accomplished session drummers, performing on many recording projects for artists as well as film and television productions. He also earned a glowing reputation for his skills as a live performer.
At the age of 18, Acuña was chosen by the great Latin bandleader, Perez Prado, to join his big band. It was with the Prado band that he first traveled to the United States. In 1974, he moved to Las Vegas and played with such greats as Elvis Presley and Diana Ross. Following this chapter of his career, he became both drummer and percussionist for one of the most innovative jazz groups of our time, Weather Report, recording Black Market and the famous Heavy Weather album.
After moving to Los Angeles in 1978, he quickly earned the position of a valued session drummer and percussionist for recordings, television and motion pictures. He was the recipient of many awards and honors, including the Emeritus MVP award from the L.A. chapter of National Academy of Recording for the Arts and Sciences and winner of the “Latin/Brazilian percussionist” Category of Modern Drummer’s “Reader’s Poll” for five years running.
Tickets for the Meany Studio Theater performance are available in advance online or by calling the Arts Ticket Office at 206-543-4880. For details, please visit the School of Music events calendar.
The Mallethead series continues Friday, March 2 at Brechemin Auditorium with a concert featuring drummer Ralph Humphrey, known for his work with rock icon Frank Zappa, and concludes on Friday, May 11 at Brechemin Auditorium with a performance featuring New-York based drummer Ted Poor, known for his work with trumpeter and School of Music faculty artist Cuong Vu.
