Donald Knaack is a conservatory-trained percussionist, composer, and is also known as "The Junkman." Living and performing in Manchester, Vermont, he embarked on his journey by chance while seeking a particular pitch. He soon discovered that discarded materials, such as metal pipes and automobile parts, could produce tones not available in traditional instruments. In his hands, ski-poles become wind chimes, silverware becomes bells, and keys become cascading ripples of sound. When not in his studio producing his next Grammy winning album, you can find Donald scouring junkyards and teaching young students about environmental issues. Check out Junkman's podcast and blog.
It's true what's been said. The Junkman can definitely make music with whatever there is to be found. After I saw a couple of his videos on YouTube, I couldn't help myself, being a fellow percussionist, going around tapping and banging on things to see what noise they would make. He is a very insprational person. In my school, I have found replacements for several instruments in my band class. Thank you, Junkman!
Response: Kirsten NymanThanks a lot for the article post.
Reader Comments (2)
Yep, there's "music" to be made in recycling - just takes us thinking outside the box a bit -
thanks to Shantel and Dave for helping us think outside of that box!!
It's true what's been said. The Junkman can definitely make music with whatever there is to be found. After I saw a couple of his videos on YouTube, I couldn't help myself, being a fellow percussionist, going around tapping and banging on things to see what noise they would make. He is a very insprational person. In my school, I have found replacements for several instruments in my band class. Thank you, Junkman!