A strong percussion program with ties to the Cleveland Orchestra has been a part of the Department of Music at CSU since its inception. This tradition of excellence was solidified in 1991 when Tom Freer, Assistant Principal Timpani and Section Percussion, became Coordinator of Percussion Studies. His tenure has marked a period of significant growth in the size and national reputation of the department. Matthew Bassett, timpanist with the Cleveland Pops Orchestra & Apollo's Fire (Cleveland Baroque Orchestra), was added to the staff in 2001 to direct the CSU Percussion Ensemble and teach all undergraduate sudents and graduate students as needed.

The department now serves approximately 20 post-graduate and undergraduate percussion students with its nine dedicated percussion practice rooms and unparalleled collection of modern and vintage instruments. The department offers a comprehensive performance curriculum with emphasis on orchestral and concert percussion. Frequent clinics and masterclasses by leading percussion performers and educators add to the breadth and depth of the student experience at CSU.