Josh Hakanson

Josh Hakanson holds dual academic appointments:

• University of Northern Iowa: Assistant Adjunct Professor of Percussion in the School of Music
• Wartburg College: Percussion Faculty directing the Knightliters Jazz Band and Wartburg Percussion Ensemble

A professional drummer, Hakanson performs across jazz, rock, hip-hop, and fusion genres. He has shared the stage with renowned artists including Bobby Shew, Benny Green, and Luis Bonilla. His educational work spans private lessons for all ages and coaching jazz ensembles at collegiate and high school levels.

Hakanson's expertise centers on jazz performance and percussion pedagogy. He integrates diverse stage experience into teaching, emphasizing drum set technique and ensemble leadership. His approach bridges practical performance skills with structured music education, particularly through clinics for middle/high school students and collegiate ensemble direction at Wartburg College.