Excelsis Percussion is a new quartet in NYC. We sat down with two of its members: Mariana Ramirez and Marcelina Suchocka. Topics: Vida Chenoweth and Valarie Naranjo. Watch here. Listen below. If you cannot see the audio controls, your browser does not support the audio element 0:00 Intro and hello 1:37  Excelsis Percussion Quartet formation 5:33  Coordinating percussion logistics in New York City 9:23  From the Top program and grant for instruments 13:05  Ben: Vida Chenoweth 21:36  Scott Schumann: As a group with a wide diversity of backgrounds, were or are there any cultural barriers or any other difficulties that you have had to overcome when working together in terms of practicing, selecting repertoire, and/or performing, etc.? 24:54  Carlos Johnson: Mariana, how are female percussionists treated in Mexico and how does it differ from your experience in the US? 27:43  Ted Jackson: Aside from percussion, what do you all like to do? 29:54  Megan: Valerie Naranjo, Ayodele Drum & Dance, and Nimbaya 36:27  Sexism and gender inequality in the music/percussion worlds 42:28  Carol Arns: What inspired you to play percussion? 48:25  Paul Lansky’s “Threads” 52:26  Carlos Johnson: Is there an expected CD and is there going to be another Call for Scores? 53:45  Tippet Rise Music Festival and Marcelina’s upcoming recital 55:52  Future of the quartet 59:23  Wrap