Veit Named Managing Director for Wells-Rapp Center for Mallet Percussion Research

KUTZTOWN, Pa. – Kutztown University has named Dr. Andrew Veit as the new managing director for the Wells-Rapp Center for Mallet Percussion Research. After two years as the director of percussion studies at the University of Texas Permian Basin, Veit will begin at KU Monday, Aug. 11.

The Wells-Rapp Center for Mallet Percussion Research (CMPR) is home to one-of-a-kind collections for artifacts, instruments, manuscripts and recordings representing many of the luminaries in mallet percussion form.

CMPR is dedicated to serving a broad community that encompasses the local region to enthusiasts, artists and scholars from around the world as a comprehensive resource and leading institution in the preservation, education, presentation and advancement of the mallet percussion art form.

“I am thrilled that, after a comprehensive national search, Andrew Veit has accepted the position of managing director of the Wells-Rapp Center for Mallet Percussion Research,” said Dr. Bradley Shope, dean, College of Visual and Performing Arts. “I am confident that he will excel in this position; his strategic thinking, resourcefulness and leadership skills make him an ideal fit for this role. I have no doubt that he will embrace this position with enthusiasm, determination and dedication.”

The University of Texas Permian Basin gave Veit experience in community outreach through music festivals that he arranged for the community to explore, create and celebrate music. As the director of percussion studies, he taught applied lessons, coached and coordinated percussion ensemble and marching percussion techniques. Aside from his teaching experience, he also has performed research on how to enhance the collegiate percussion experience through integrating music technology, electronics and amplification education.

“I’m honored to join Kutztown University as the managing director of the Wells-Rapp Center for Mallet Percussion Research,” Veit said. “The Center represents an extraordinary commitment to the preservation and advancement of the mallet percussion art form, and I’m excited to contribute to its next chapter. I look forward to working with the vibrant KU community and with percussionists from around the world to expand the Center’s impact through research, outreach and innovative programming.”

Veit will be responsible for enhancing the Wells-Rapp Center’s long-term goals through strategic program development and administration. He will oversee marketing communications, manage operations and represent the center. He is a creative and confident leader who will cultivate relationships, manage the center’s online presence and support research efforts.

Veit earned a Bachelor of Music Education from the University of Delaware, a Master of Music in performance from Texas A&M University-Commerce, and a Doctor of Musical Arts from the University of Iowa.