Joshua Manchester

Joshua Manchester is an innovative performer and instructor in the field of percussion. Besides playing in numerous Chicago new music groups, he has undertaken national tours as an improviser, works with contemporary choirs and children in churches and schools, performs ensemble or solo recitals in venues such as the Green Mill, Zhou Brothers Center, Elastic Arts, and the Vittum Theater. While having a strong background in traditional music, many diverse musical influences have shaped his experience. He often collaborates and performs with new music composers, including Mei-Fang Lin and William Jason Raynovich, and has also studied composition with Herbert Brun and Susan Parenti. After spending two years performing with a Javanese gamelan and studying the Indian Tabla, Joshua has taken an interest in instrument invention and field recording.