Jack van Geem

Jack van Geem is a Professor in the Percussion department at San Francisco Conservatory of Music, where he teaches applied percussion lessons and serves as a key faculty member. He has been associated with institutions like the San Francisco Symphony (1980–2012) and Composers Inc (1990–Present).

Education:

• Master of Music (MM) from California State University, Hayward (1974)
• Bachelor of Music (BM) from California State University, Hayward (1973)

Van Geem’s expertise lies in percussion and music performance, with a focus on marimba techniques, symphonic repertoire for keyboard percussion, and contemporary ensemble practices. His research and teaching philosophy emphasize the importance of embracing failure to overcome fear and gain control in musical practice.

Collaborations: He has collaborated with notable figures such as Nancy Zeltsman, Michael Tilson Thomas, and John Adams, shaping the contemporary percussion landscape through partnerships in ensembles and recordings.

Publications: His academic contributions include Four Mallets Democracy, Marimba Master Class, and Symphonic Repertoire for Keyboard Percussion, which are foundational resources for percussionists.