About the BHS Steel Drum Band & Percussion Program.

The Binghamton High School Percussion Program is under the direction of BHS Director of Bands, Joel Smales.  The Percussion Ensemble is a strong force in the musical life of the Rod Serling School at Binghamton High School and throughout the Southern Tier and beyond.  Performing traditional percussion ensemble, marimba band and steel drum music, the ensemble has consistently received rave reviews and top honors at festivals and events..

The Steel Band has performed in Indianapolis, Minneapolis, Nashville, Virginia, NYC and thoughout much of NYS.

The Ensemble has performed with Andy Narell, Zoro, Liam Teague, Steve Smith, Billy Ward, Tracey Thornton, Gordon Stout, Tony Verderosa, Ithaca College Steel Band, for NYS Days of Percussion and with the Binghamton Community Orchestra. The BHS Percussion Program has hosted clinics and concerts featuring such percussion luminaries as Bob Becker, Robin Engelman, Leigh Howard Stevens, Tommy Igoe, Sherrie Maricle, Marko Marcinko and Gordon Stout. Students in grades 9-12 may participate in the ensemble. They have released two CD recordings to date: JUICE BLENDERS featuring all original music written by members of the steel band and Joel Smales and BAGGAGE CLAIM. Their 3rd CD, "LIVE" is in production.