Jake Nalangan

From Sacramento, California, Jake grew up playing in traditional jazz bands from an early age. While still in high school he won several awards; including a full scholarship to the Berklee 5 Week summer program and a Downbeat Award for his piano trio. After receiving a full scholarship, Jake attended the University of North Texas where he studied with Dave Meder, Fred Sanders, Quincy Davis, Ed Soph and many others. While at UNT, Jake was a member of the storied One O’ Clock Lab Band, and recorded for Lab ’23. After graduating, he was invited to Ravinia Steans Music Institute to study composition with Billy Childs, Rufus Reid, and Steve Wilson. He’s shared the stage with legend such as Chris Potter, Kurt Elling, Allison Miller, Arturo Sandoval, Phillip Dizack, and Wycliffe Gordon- and performed at venues such as The Jazz Standard, The Monterey Jazz Festival, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Parker Jazz Club in Austin TX, and Jones Hall with the Houston Symphony. Jake has been teaching privately over the last 6 years. He strongly believes in helping people realize their full potential- and do things they didn’t think they could do. Jake is comfortable working with students who have learned by ear, as well as students who are familiar with music notation. His goal is to push students while maintaining a respectful environment where students don’t feel afraid to fail.