Glenn Schaft

Glenn Schaft serves as Professor of Music and Director of Drumset and Percussion Studies at Youngstown State University's Dana School of Music & University Theatre, where he coordinates the percussion curriculum, teaches applied lessons, directs the Percussion Ensemble, and co-founded the Youngstown Percussion Collective. He also performs as artist-in-residence with the faculty Dana Ensemble chamber group.

Education:

• Doctor of Musical Arts, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
• Master of Arts, Eastern Illinois University
• Bachelor of Music, Baldwin Wallace University
• Post-doctoral studies at Cleveland State University, Berklee College of Music World Percussion Festival, and Escuela Nacional de Arte (Havana, Cuba)

Research Focus: Schaft's work centers on percussion performance with specialized expertise in drumset techniques, Afro-Cuban/Brazilian/Indian percussion traditions, and jazz improvisation. His research bridges contemporary classical composition with global rhythmic practices, emphasizing cross-cultural performance methodologies and innovative percussion pedagogy within academic settings.

Awards & Recognition:

• Ohio Arts Council Grant for Cuban percussion studies

He maintains artist endorsements with Zildjian cymbals, Vic Firth sticks, Remo drumheads, and serves as educational consultant for Black Swamp Percussion.

Professional Leadership: As active Percussive Arts Society member, Schaft serves on the Drumset Committee and previously contributed to University Pedagogy and PASIC Planning Committees. He has presented at national conferences including PAS conventions and universities nationwide, while advising student ensembles and adjudicating regional music festivals.

Performance Affiliations: He performs with the Dana Ensemble faculty group, YSU Faculty Jazz Group (including China tours), and Youngstown Percussion Collective, maintaining active engagement across symphonic, jazz, and world music contexts.