A dynamic and versatile percussionist, Joshua Gianola has established himself as a leading performer, educator, and advocate for percussion artistry in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. He currently serves as Principal Percussionist of the Yakima Symphony Orchestra and the Walla Walla Symphony Orchestra, while also performing as an extra percussionist with the Oregon Symphony, Vancouver Symphony, and Spokane Symphony, among others. His international performances include a tour of Inner Mongolia, China, as Principal Percussionist with the American Festival Orchestra, as well as appearances at the Edeta Arts Festival in Valencia, Spain.
Gianola has performed principal percussion roles in major symphonic works such as Bolero, Scheherazade, and La Mer with orchestras across the region. A champion of contemporary music, he performed in the world premiere of An African American Requiem by Damien Geter with the Oregon Symphony. He also co-founded the CWU New Music Festival, fostering collaborations between performers and emerging composers.
Beyond the stage, Gianola is a dedicated educator, serving as Lecturer of Percussion at Central Washington University, where he mentors the next generation of percussionists through applied lessons, directing the percussion ensemble, and teaching courses in pedagogy, literature, and music theory. He is also a founding member of Yakima Music en Acción, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering young musicians through intensive music education. His deep commitment to community engagement is reflected in his work with youth ensembles, adjudication at regional competitions, and guest lectures at institutions across the Northwest.
With a career that blends performance, teaching, and artistic leadership, Gianola continues to shape the landscape of percussion music while inspiring audiences and students alike.