new podcast episode 27:

Andrés Pichardo-Rosenthal

Assistant Principal Percussion, Detroit Symphony

Raynor Carroll, retired Principal Percussionist with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, engages in a conversation with Andrés Pichardo-Rosenthal, the newly appointed Section Percussionist with the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

Find out more about this episode on our Podcast Page.

ABOP at 2025 Percussive arts society international convention

What Did Our Protégés Think?

“At PASIC, I got to meet many new people, including Chris Lamb, Andy Akiho, and many of our sponsors. Attending the many different masterclasses and concerts, as well as just being on the expo floor, has opened my eyes to how truly big the world of percussion is. Honoring Mr. Raynor was one of the highlights of this trip. Being inducted into the Hall of Fame and attending the banquet was such a wonderful thing to experience. I was truly happy with my experience at PASIC, and I can’t wait to go back!”

“Getting to see Raynor as well as all of the other inductees leave a legacy in the Percussive Arts Society inspired me not only as a percussionist, not only as a musician, but as a person that should strive to create a change in this world to do what I can to improve the lives of the people around me. PASIC also introduced me to many like-minded individuals who share that same dream, and I am glad to have made some great friends who I can continue to work with and turn that dream into reality!”

“PASIC 2025 provided me with the invaluable opportunity to have my voice heard in spaces that often dismiss lesser-known musicians. While many of my struggles are niche to women in the field, I appreciate the representatives that wanted my opinion and are dedicated to moving the needle in favor of inclusion of women, regardless of my degree of notoriety.”

“After PASIC 2025, I found a light within myself — a spark that has now turned into full-blown fire. Witnessing Raynor be inducted into the Hall of Fame was incredibly inspiring, a reminder of the impact one person can have on a community. The experience challenged me as a musician and as a person, pushing me to grow, take risks, and embrace my artistry fully. PASIC ignited a passion and drive in me that I will carry forward in my music, my teaching, and my mission to uplift others in this field.“

“Music has reshaped my perspective, turning personal experiences into a universal language.”

Raynor Carroll inducted into PAS Hall of Fame

As ABOP returns from another successful trip to the Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC) held in Indianapolis, IN, November 2025, we are happy to share additional big news!

ABOP Co-Founder and CEO, Raynor Carroll, has been inducted into the 2025 Percussive Arts Society (PAS) Hall of Fame.

A highlight of the world’s largest percussion organization, the PAS Hall of Fame has honored such luminaries as Peter Erskine, Ringo Starr, Milt Jackson, Gene Krupa, Chick Webb, Babatunde Olatunji, Lionel Hampton, Max Roach, and industry leaders like Zildjian, Grover, and Vic Firth.  According to PAS, the Hall of Fame “recognizes the contributions of the most highly regarded professional leaders in percussion performance, education, research, scholarship, administration, composition, and the industry.  Inductees… bring about significant events, substantive improvements in the world of percussion, and the betterment of the profession through exemplary services or acts.  …Their influence has been felt across generations, and their legacies continue to inspire and elevate the field of drums and percussion.”

Read about the six 2025 inductees here.

Congratulations to Raynor for this outstanding honor!  It is a well-deserved recognition for a long, successful career as a performing artist, educator, publisher, leader, and change-maker.  This honor celebrates his remarkable contributions to the field and his commitment to the next generation of percussionists.

ABOP RECEIVES A GRANT FROM THE

ELLA FITZGERALD CHARITABLE FOUNDATION 

Raynor Carroll, Founder and CEO of ABOP, is pleased to announce that ABOP has received a grant from The Ella Fitzgerald Charitable Foundation. Established in 1993 by Ella Fitzgerald, the First Lady of Song, the Foundation’s mission is to “foster a profound appreciation for music, provide music education to children and young adults, and expose individuals to the inherent beauty and joy of music.”

Carroll expressed that this support will empower ABOP’s Protégés to access the essential resources required for their musical training, thereby accelerating their development into accomplished symphonic musicians. On behalf of the ABOP family, Carroll extends the sincerest gratitude to the Foundation for the generous donation.