About
The Proper Glue Duo is a dynamic ensemble consisting of percussionists Melanie S.T. Sehman and Steve Sehman. Formed in 2004, the Proper Glue Duo is dedicated to the creation and performance of modern music for percussion. The Duo seeks to promote widespread appreciation for percussion music by presenting energetic performances of repertoire with depth and substance, and by collaborating in the creation of new works with both emerging and established composers. The group has performed throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico at institutions such as the Eastman School of Music, Cornell University, Conservatorio de las Rosas, University of Maryland, and University at Buffalo, establishing a reputation for their refined technique and relaxed, easy style.
Beyond performing, the Proper Glue Duo works continually to add to the relatively young body of repertoire for percussion by grantwriting and commissioning new works, and giving fresh performances of existing and lesser known works. The group has worked closely with composers such as Carlos Sanchez-Gutierrez, Stuart Saunders Smith, Robert Morris, Ricardo Zohn-Muldoon, Aaron Travers, David Plylar, Jacob Bancks and Martin Scherzinger.
In addition to the Proper Glue Duo, Melanie and Steve frequently perform with other instrumentalists in combinations of percussion with pianos, clarinet, flute, guitar, and others.
Bios
Melanie S. T. Sehman is a percussionist specializing in contemporary chamber music. She enjoys working in partnership with other musicians and composers, active in the creation of new works. Ms. Sehman has appeared as a performer and clinician at the Percussive Arts Society International Convention, published articles in Percussive Notes magazine, and recorded on the Summit and Equilibrium labels. In 2002, she began playing and studying the mbira dza vadzimu. Ms. Sehman received her Doctor of Musical Arts degree and was awarded the Performer’s Certificate from the Eastman School of Music where she studied with John H. Beck. She has also studied with J.B. Smith and Andrew Spencer. Currently she is Assistant Professor at the City University of New York Queensborough Community College, where she teaches percussion, music theory and world music.
Percussionist Steve Sehman performs as one-half of the percussion group Proper Glue Duo. The New York City based duo has performed concerts throughout North America. Mr. Sehman has also served on the board of directors and has performed frequently with the new music ensemble OSSIA, participating in numerous premieres. As a member of various ensembles, he has collaborated with composers Harrison Birtwistle and Bernard Rands and U.S. Poet Laureate Rita Dove. He has recorded on the Equilibrium, Summit and d’Note Classics labels. In addition to performing contemporary chamber music, Mr. Sehman specializes in the performance and study of the mbira dza vadzimu. He has presented on the mbira at the Percussive Arts Society International Convention and at numerous other institutions, and has been a featured performer at the Tufts University Festival of African Music and Dance. Mr. Sehman received degrees from Arizona State University and the Eastman School of Music. He resides in Brooklyn, New York.