Jacob Kennedy is entering his fifth year as a music educator and his first year as Director of Bands at Clark. Prior to his appointment, Mr. Kennedy began his career in Plano as an Associate Director at Williams HS and Bowman MS concurrently. Bands under Mr. Kennedy have consistently received Excellent and Superior Ratings at UIL Concert and Sightreading Contest. As a conductor, Mr. Kennedy has studied under the tutelage of Jerry Junkin, Dr. Robert Carnochan, and Glenn Richter in a University setting as well as H. Robert Reynolds, Craig Kirchoff, Richard Floyd, Dr. Jamie L. Nix, and Dr. Scott Boerma in a workshop setting. 

An Austin native, Mr. Kennedy earned his Bachelor’s in Music Studies from The University of Texas at Austin (Hook ‘em!). Prior to his time at UT, he grew up in a suburb just north of the city and graduated from Round Rock High School. Throughout his tenure in the Greater Austin Area, Mr. Kennedy spent four seasons working with high school band students as a marching technician and private lesson instructor. His primary instrument is saxophone, and he holds a Certificate of Performance from the Butler School of Music. Mr. Kennedy found an interest in composing/arranging during his time at UT, and has since had his arrangements performed at TMEA, NASA (North American Saxophone Alliance – regional conference) and a few public performances on Plano ISD campuses.

Mr. Kennedy’s professional affiliations include Texas Music Educators Association, Texas Bandmasters Association, North American Saxophone Alliance, and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia.

Outside of school, Mr. Kennedy is very passionate about the culinary arts, always trying new recipes/healthy alternatives. He enjoys jamming out to a wide variety of musical genres, playing video games, camping/hiking, and keeping up with Liverpool FC, his favorite English Premier League Club. His family lives in Tampa, FL and he often can be found spending time away from school with his family on the beach.