Percussionist Britton-René Collins is not only a celebrated soloist but also a passionate advocate for musical equity. A 2020 Concert Artists Guild Victor Elmaleh competition winner, Collins has performed across the U.S., Canada, and Europe. Among her many accolades, she won the grand prize in the 2022 Yamaha Young Performing Artists Competition and the 2021 Chicago International Music Competition. In addition to her solo career, she also performs with the Excelsis Percussion Quartet and co-founded the Vision Duo.
Collins, who holds degrees from the University of Toronto and the University of Michigan, actively promotes new music and has debuted pieces at the prestigious Percussive Arts Society International Convention. She’ll be performing at Northern Michigan University’s Reynolds Recital Hall as part of the Siril Concert Series on Friday, September 6th, at 7:30 p.m.
When asked about her commitment to fostering an equitable music community, Collins shared her journey and passion for making music accessible. “Growing up as a classical musician, I didn’t see many role models who looked like me,” she explained. “I’m honored to be a role model for students who might feel like there isn’t a place for them in this community, showing them that music is for everybody. I love to program works by a diverse array of composers, helping to create a percussion community where everyone has a voice.”
A champion of new music, Collins thrives on collaboration with living composers. “I love the dialogue that happens when creating new works,” she shared, reflecting on her work leading up to premieres. Her passion for collaboration also extends to her performances with ensembles like the Excelsis Percussion Quartet and Vision Duo. “Rehearsing with friends and performing together is where I have the most fun,” she said. “Everyone should create music with friends—it’s a powerful experience.”
Collins’ musical journey began with the piano at age five, but it was the sound of drums that ignited her passion for percussion. “I heard a drum lesson down the hall during a piano lesson and begged my parents to let me switch,” she recalled. “From there, my love for percussion grew through public school bands and into the broad world of percussion instruments.”
Kurt Hauswirth spoke with Britton-René about her upcoming concert:
In addition to her concert, Collins has been involved in school visits and will work with NMU’s percussion students and music appreciation classes. “I hope I can be a good resource for these students. Not too long ago, I was in their shoes,” she said.
Collins’ advice for young musicians is simple yet powerful: “Never give up. Find your community and believe in yourself. Keep creating art that is meaningful to you.”
Britton-René Collins performs at the Reynolds Recital Hall on NMU's campus on Friday, September 6th at 7:30 p.m. Her concert is part of the Siril Concert Series, sponsored by the Siril Endowment for the Musical Arts. Visit the NMU Department of Music website for more information, and for tickets, visit nmu.universitytickets.com.
