Paul Tanner

Paul Tanner is a Lecturer at the Conservatorium of Music, University of Western Australia, and Principal Percussionist of the Perth Symphony Orchestra. He holds a PhD from Edith Cowan University for his groundbreaking work on the 'Marimba-Vibe' double keyboard setup. His research focuses on expanding solo percussion idioms through innovative instrument configurations and cross-cultural performance practices.

Education: PhD in Music (Edith Cowan University, 2022), Master of Music with studies under Steven Schick, and extensive fieldwork in South America and West Africa.

Research explores percussion instrument innovation, intercultural music fusion, and performance techniques for the marimba-vibe setup. Notable contributions include developing notation systems for V-formation setups and composing original works for solo percussion.

Recent creative works emphasize interdisciplinary collaborations, with performances at major festivals including Adelaide, Sydney, and Perth International Arts Festivals. Awards include dual 'most outstanding research thesis' medals from WAAPA and Edith Cowan University.

Active in education through Afro-Latin percussion units, performance residencies, and pedagogical guides for composers/performers. Current projects include a grant-funded initiative for compositions by female composers in guitar-percussion duos.