Jacob Massena
Gainesville,FL
Summary
Band director with a track record of successful recruitment strategies and performance preparation. Developed and expanded the Santa Fe High School band program, increasing participation nearly threefold through strong relationships with students and feeder programs. Focused on teaching fundamental skills to instill a lifelong passion for music in all students.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Director of Bands
Santa Fe High School
Alachua, FL
08.2022 - Current
- Started and established a comprehensive curriculum for a high school beginning band program.
- Grew band membership from 27 to over 60 in three years through effective recruitment.
- Consistently earned superior ratings at District Music Performance Assessments.
- Taught a variety of classes such as percussion, color guard, keyboard, and music of the world.
- Hosted District 4 Marching Band MPA for 4 years (2022-2025)
Student Teacher
Howard Bishop Middle School
Gainesville, FL
03.2022 - 05.2022
- Taught full schedule of beginning band and advanced woodwind, brass, and percussion classes.
- Administered assessments and charted student progress through an impact project.
- Collaborated with district chair to assist in organizing FBA District 4 events.
Student Teacher
Bell Middle/High School
Bell, FL
01.2022 - 03.2022
- Administered AP Music Theory instruction, enhancing students' understanding of complex musical concepts.
- Prepared students for MPA through targeted lessons and rehearsals, leading to successful performances.
- Directed ensembles from 6th grade beginning band to high school concert bands, fostering musical development and teamwork.
Education
MME - Music Education
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL08-2026
BME - Music Education
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL05-2022
Skills
- Conducting
- Music pedagogy
- Repertoire Selection
- Music Arranging
- Rehearsal Techniques
- Curriculum development
- Student assessment
- Recruitment strategies
- Recruiting and Retention
- Event organization
- Classroom management
- Effective communication
Accomplishments
- 2 Time FFCC State Outdoor Finalist (2024-2025)
- 4 District Marching MPA Superior Ratings (2022-2025)
- 3 District Concert MPA Superior Ratings (2023-2026)
- Section Leader Gator Marching Band (2019 - 2021)
- UF Bands Richard Bowles Award Winner (2020)
- Eagle Scout (2016)
Certification
Florida Professional Music K-12
Timeline
Director of Bands
Santa Fe High School
08.2022 - Current
Student Teacher
Howard Bishop Middle School
03.2022 - 05.2022
Student Teacher
Bell Middle/High School
01.2022 - 03.2022
MME - Music Education
Florida State University
BME - Music Education
University of Florida