Blake Tyson has written some of the most popular works in the percussion repertoire. His compositions are performed in concert halls around the world, and his own performances have taken him to five continents and over thirty states. He has performed in Egypt at the Ministry of Culture in Cairo and the Library of Alexandria, at international festivals in South Africa and South America, at the Beijing Central Conservatory, and in Norway as part of the European Cultural Capital celebrations. In addition, he has been a featured artist at numerous Percussive Arts Society International Conventions, PAS Days of Percussion, the Northwest Percussion Festival, the Leigh Howard Stevens Summer Marimba Seminar, and a member of the faculty of the Interlochen Arts Camp.
Blake Tyson is a concert artist and clinician for Malletech, where he has his own line of signature mallets, and for the Zildjian Company. He holds a DMA from the Eastman School of Music, where he was also awarded the prestigious Performer's Certificate. He holds a Master of Music degree from Kent State University and the degree of Bachelor of Music in Performance from the University of Alabama. His teachers include Marjorie Engle, Peggy Benkeser, Larry Mathis, Michael Burritt, Halim El-Dabh, and John Beck. He has served on the faculties of New Mexico State University and the University of Alabama. Since 2001, Blake has been a member of the faculty of the University of Central Arkansas.
“Blake Tyson is an exceptional musician. He is unquestionably one of the finest marimbists I have heard.”
“Blake approaches new and classic repertoire with sensitivity and intelligence. He is also a fine composer and his works are now standard repertoire for all percussionists. It is an honor knowing him and I always look forward to making music with him.”
“Blake Tyson, in addition to being a fabulous performer, has the unique ability to relate to students of all ability levels in masterclass and clinic settings. His thorough knowledge of music makes him a valuable role model for today’s young musicians—and not just percussionists. My students are still talking about his latest visit to our campus! I give him my highest recommendation, and hope to have him back soon!”
“I found Dr. Tyson’s playing to be very refined with a wonderful balance between technique and expression. The masterclass was insightful and articulate. I was most impressed with his versatility, not only on different percussion instruments, but in his understanding of different styles of music.”
“Blake Tyson is an outstanding musician and clinician. While his intimacy with the marimba repertoire is extremely impressive, his ability to communicate with students is perhaps even more impressive. I highly recommend Dr. Tyson.”