Jake Robinson was raised in Whately, Massachusetts, where his musical parents helped foster a deep respect for music of all kinds. By age 13, Jake was drumming with professional Blues, Jazz, and Pop bands. With several state Jazz competitions under his belt, Jake attended Oberlin Conservatory, studying closely with legendary Jazz drummer Billy Hart. After earning his B.M., Jake attended the Manhattan School of Music on scholarship, studying privately with famed Jazz drummer John Riley and earning his M.M. in 2010.

An active music educator, Jake has long since been a private teacher and music theory tutor, and gives percussion classes in New York City schools. “I consider teaching an important part of the music lifestyle. Sharing one’s knowledge, passing along timeless ideas, reaching out to people, these are all valued steps in becoming a greater musician and a better person.”

In his lessons, Jake teaches using the Alan Dawson method of independence. “Mr. Dawson’s world-renown method teaches independence of the limbs, sound technique, excellent reading ability, and can translate to any style of drumming---and it’s fun!”

Jake believes versatility and openness is key to a healthy musical disposition, and strives to be as proficient as possible in every style, from Jazz to Brazilian to R’n’B. In teaching this to his students, Jake emphasizes having proper technique and reading ability, knowing the history of the instrument and the music, and studying the masters carefully.

In addition to freelancing as a Jazz, Pop, and World drummer, Jake stays busy with his original 8-piece Funk band, The Uptown Party Down, for which he is the main composer. Having only been together since January 2011, the vibrant group is already turning heads and playing established venues around NYC.