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Gregory Beyer is Professor and Director of Percussion Studies at Northern Illinois University's School of Music within the College of Visual and Performing Arts. A Fulbright Scholar, composer, and educator, Beyer is recognized as a "prodigiously talented percussionist" (Chicago Classical Review) and "a fine percussionist" (New York Times). His work bridges classical, jazz, and world music traditions into a singular artistic voice.
As Artistic Director of Arcomusical, Beyer has pioneered work with the Afro-Brazilian berimbau, releasing multiple critically acclaimed albums including MeiaMeia (2016), Spinning in the Wheel (2019), and Emigre and Exile (2022). His research explores transatlantic musical connections, with his article "Arching Over the Atlantic: Exploring Links between Angolan and Brazilian musical Bows" published in Ethnomusicology.
Beyer's performance career includes earning second place at the 2002 Geneva International Solo Percussion Competition and premiering works such as Chinary Ung's "Four Elements." He previously performed with flutist Erin Lesser as Due East (2001-2014) and was a core member of Chicago's Ensemble Dal Niente (2011-2018). Currently, he is also a core member of the University of Chicago's Grossman Ensemble.
- Fulbright Scholar
- Second place, 2002 Geneva International Solo Percussion Competition
- 2016 Chamber Music America Classical Commissioning Grant recipient
- Author of "Arching Over the Atlantic" in Ethnomusicology
Beyer directs NIU's Percussion Studies program, New Music Ensemble, Latin Jazz Ensemble, and co-directs the award-winning Percussion Ensemble. His teaching philosophy emphasizes creating "an environment that fosters a sense of family, integrity, creativity, respect and a passionate commitment to hard work," seeking to provide "transformative, life-changing experiences" for students. He views music as "a vehicle for intercultural understanding and the betterment of society through a commitment to daily work and personal growth."
