Melodic percussion instruments occupy a special space in the musical world, and the Wells-Rapp Center for Mallet Percussion Research at Kutztown University, Kutztown, PA, is home to a unique world-class collection of artifacts and information on their history and evolution.
“Over 100 rare and vintage marimbas, xylophones, vibraphones, bells, chimes, and other mallet percussion novelties are on display, and the collection is fully playable,” notes co-founder Willis M. Rapp, who also chairs the Center’s Advisory Council.
Opened in 2023, the Center's facility includes a Performance Hall (with a very active concert calendar), rehearsal rooms, a percussion teaching studio, an Archival Research Room, and seven specialized exhibit rooms equipped with Gallery System’s GalleryOne art hanging equipment.
“Ordering was easy, shipping was prompt, and installation very straightforward due to excellent instructions,” says Rapp.
We are proud to be part of the Center’s mission of supporting “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.”
