About Jake Umbrazun
Ohio native Jake Umbrazun began his musical journey the same way that so many young students do: inspired by great teachers and artists in grade school. After picking up tuba at age 11, Jake grew up playing as the Principal Tubist in the Youngstown Symphony Youth Orchestra and the Stambaugh Youth Concert Band. He would go on to pursue a Bachelors Degree in Music Education from Youngstown State University, where he studied tuba with Dr. Brian Kiser, and received further instruction under esteemed professors Hakeem Bilal, Sebastian Vera, and Dr. Stacie Mickens. Instrumental in his education was performing under the baton of the late Dr. Stephen L. Gage. Jake completed additional studies with Brass playing greats like Daniel Perantoni, Warren Deck, and Scott Hartman at the Rafael Mendez Brass Institute.
Jake Umbrazun has taught elementary through high school music in public and private schools. In both the classroom and private lessons, he encourages his students to recognize the great power and privilege that playing music allows. Ultimately, he strives to help students become not just great players, but great musicians.
Jake was a founding member of the Park Avenue Brass quintet, and remains an active performer as a freelance musician. Whether it be playing tuba, trombone, drums, or singing and playing guitar – Jake is always trying to find new ways to challenge himself as a musician and inspire his students to do the same.
