Southern Illinois University is celebrating a major gift to its School of Music. Ken Park, a 1971 alumnus and accomplished percussionist, has donated $100,000 worth of world percussion instruments to his alma mater.
The collection includes timpani, vibraphones, and global drums that will give students hands-on access to professional-grade sounds. Park, who grew up in Murphysboro and went on to perform with stars like Donna Summer, Barry Manilow, and Whitney Houston, says he wanted his instruments to “come home” to SIU.
Faculty will use the instruments in lessons, ensembles, and recording projects, offering students direct exposure to global music traditions.
