Frank Cassara

Frank Cassara is an Adjunct Professor of Percussion and World Music at Long Island University's School of Performing Arts, where he directs the Percussion Ensemble. He also heads the percussion departments at Brooklyn College Conservatory of Music and Vassar College, demonstrating a strong commitment to music education across institutions.

His research and artistic interests center on contemporary and world percussion, with deep engagement in new music, microtonal systems, African balafon (gyil), and interdisciplinary performance. As a performer, he bridges Western classical traditions with global influences, particularly through collaborations with innovative ensembles.

Cassara has been a key member of the Philip Glass Ensemble and Steve Reich and Musicians, performing internationally and contributing to landmark recordings. He has premiered numerous works and performed on unique instruments such as Harry Partch’s original microtonal creations and the Zoomoozophone. His performance credits include major orchestras like the Riverside Symphony and Broadway shows such as 'The Lion King' and 'Phantom of the Opera.'

His artistic excellence has been recognized in prominent publications including Fanfare Magazine, Syracuse Post Standard, and The New York Times, where he was praised for virtuosic and expressive performances.

• Performed in Fanfare Magazine-recommended recording of Robert Martin's 'Only When The Clock Stops'
• Cited in Syracuse Post Standard for dazzling performance in Bright Sheng's 'Hot Pepper'
• Highlighted in The New York Times by Paul Griffiths for 'Nagoya Marimbas' and by Allan Kozinn for 'Phenomina III'

Frank Cassara mentors emerging percussionists across multiple institutions and leads percussion programs with a focus on innovation and global repertoire. Though no formal grants are listed, his extensive performance and recording activities suggest sustained project-based funding and institutional support. He is an Innovative Percussion Artist and maintains an active artistic profile through recordings, tours, and educational leadership.

He performs and records with ensembles such as New Music Consort/PULSE Percussion Ensemble, Newband/Harry Partch Ensemble, Music from China, Talujon Percussion Quartet, and Ethos Percussion Group, contributing to a vibrant ecosystem of new music performance. His work spans festivals, Carnegie Hall, the Brooklyn Academy of Music, and international stages.