Faculty
Jeff Brandt
Jeff is building a reputation in the Northwest for his entertaining and motivational style used in teaching percussion and clinics on rhythm. His book Tasty Rhythms® has received critical acclaim from musicians nationwide. Educators teaching primary, secondary and college level courses--in both large classrooms as well as private settings--use this innovative method.
Mr. Brandt received his Bachelor's in Music from Pacific Lutheran University in 1994. He subsequently was appointed to the music faculty of both Pierce Community College and Pacific Lutheran University. In 2002, he accepted a Graduate Teaching Assistantship at the University of Montana, where he completed his Master’s in Music. He now serves as an adjunct in the UM Music Department.
Jeff has performed in many groups including the Tacoma Symphony, Northwest Sinfonietta, Missoula Symphony, Seattle Fifth Avenue Theatre Orchestra, Tacoma Opera, Total Experience Gospel Choir, Tacoma Musical Playhouse, Big Pink, The Greg Fulton Group, The PLU Jazz Faculty Combo, The Hayrollers, The Jodi Marshall Trio, and John Floridis. In addition, he has shared the stage with well-known artists such as the Brecker Brothers, Eddie Daniels, Adolf "Bud" Herseth, and Bill Watrous. He has studied percussion with Paul Cox, Dave Robbins, Robert LedBetter, and drumset with Mark Ivester, Dean Hodges and Frankie Capp.
In addition to running the Bearcussion® Studio, Jeff is expanding his Tasty Rhythms® book into a series. He and his wife Brittany live in Missoula with their sons Carson and Owen, and their two crazy cats Tudy and Beast.
Contact Jeff Brandt: jeff.brandt@umontana.edu