Jackson Anderson (b. 1994) is a dedicated educator and musician, known for his commitment to excellence in music education. An eclectic performer, Mr. Anderson is an accomplished pianist, hornist, vocalist, and conductor. He performs with the OKC Winds and is in high demand as a collaborative pianist. He also plays piano and sings in JnJ Dueling Pianos, playing for Country Clubs and Breweries throughout Oklahoma.
He spent the first five years of his teaching career as the Director of Bands at Garber Public Schools. Under his leadership, the band program experienced a remarkable transformation, growing in size, earning consistent Superior Ratings, and reclaiming its tradition of excellence. Such accolades include the 2019 Class 1A State OBA Marching Champion, earning a spot in the 1A-2A-3A Finals, and the Outstanding Achievement Award in 2021. He then took a year off from full-time teaching to serve as the Worship Arts Director (after many years as an associate and interim) at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Enid, OK directing the choir and orchestra and overseeing the entire Music and Production Departments, which experienced significant growth under his tenure.
After this brief hiatus, he jumped back into teaching at Shawnee Public Schools, where he served for two years as the Associate Director of Bands. In this role, he directed the High School Symphonic Band, 8th Grade Advanced Band, and coordinated the Beginning Band curriculum, helping to rebuild the program and raise it to new heights.
Currently, Mr. Anderson is pursing a Master of Music Education (Instrumental Conducting) at the University of Oklahoma where he serves as a Graduate Teaching Assistant and teaches courses in Instrumental Methods and Brass Methods. He studies conducting with Dr. Caroline Hand and composition with Dr. Maria Kaoutzani.
Jackson is a proud graduate of Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford, OK where he studied piano, horn, voice, and conducting. He did his student teaching in the Dallas area, gaining invaluable knowledge and experience.
In addition to his teaching endeavors, Jackson is an accomplished composer and clinician, with his works performed by bands across the United States, including the Dallas Winds Brass and Percussion. He has had pieces performed at District and State Contests, the OkMEA Conference and Convention, and the International Trumpet Guild. Professional affiliations include OkMEA, OBA, and TMEA, as well as Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, Kappa Kappa Psi, Sigma Alpha Iota, ASCAP, and the International Percy Grainger Society.
Outside of his professional pursuits, Jackson enjoys traveling and taking pictures of his food. He lives in Oklahoma City with his wife, Katie, who is living her passion as a Middle School Choir Director.
Photographer: Taylor Blasier