The percussion program at Winona State University is one of the most active in the state of Minnesota. It is made up of music majors, minors, and non-major participants who study and perform in the percussion studio and various musical ensembles on campus which include: Drumline, Percussion Ensemble, Marimba Quartet, Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Combo, Concert Band and Orchestra.

Each year the percussion ensemble features guest soloists at its spring concert. The ensemble also hosts PAS Days of Percussion every other year. Some of the guest soloists who have appeared with the WSU Percussion Ensemble in recent years include: Luis Benetti, Gregg Bissonette, Michael Carney, Brad Dutz, Phil Faini, Rebecca Kite, Arthur Lipner, Sowah Mensah, Ney Rosauro, Leigh Howard Stevens, Michael Varner and Percussion Group Cincinnati.

The program is directed by Dr. R. Richard MacDonald, a graduate of the University of North Texas (B.M. and M.M.E.) and the University of Northern Colorado (Doctor of Arts). Dr. MacDonald is active with various jazz, chamber and symphonic groups in the tri-state area. He has appeared as a drumset and percussion soloist both nationally and internationally. He is also a contributing author to Percussive Notes having written several articles on fundamental drumset pedagogy. Dr. MacDonald is a member of the Vic Firth and Sabian education teams. 

For further information regarding the Percussion Ensemble at WSU, please contact Dr. R. Richard Macdonald.