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Ken McGrath

About this Artist

Percussionist KENNETH McGRATH is a regular contributor to Southern California’s diverse musical landscape.  With the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Pacific Symphony, and San Diego Symphony he has toured throughout Europe, Asia, and North America.  His contributions can be heard on numerous recordings including John Adam’s Naïve and Sentimental Music, Phillip Glass’ The Passion Ramakrishna and Gustavo Dudamel-Los Angeles Philharmonic: The Inaugural Concert.  Ken also appears frequently with the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, and serves as section percussionist with New West Symphony.  His work with the Los Angeles Philharmonic New Music Group has included concerts at Lincoln Center, the Ojai Music Festival, and the Green Umbrella Series.  In 2008, Ken commissioned, performed, and recorded the world premiere of William Kraft’s Encounters XIII:  Concertino for Percussion & Woodwind Quintet with Southwest Chamber Music.   He has performed on motion picture soundtracks for composers including John Williams, Alan Silvestri, Danny Elfman, and Hans Zimmer in addition to national touring productions of Motown: The Musical, Wicked, Curtains, The Lion King, and Phantom of the Opera.  Ken serves on the music faculties of California State University, Fullerton and Riverside City College and is an alumnus of the University of California, Los Angeles and the Eastman School of Music.  He is an Educational Artist for Marimba One.