Overview
Aaron Staebell is a dedicated educator, performer, and composer, with a passion for inspiring the next generation of musicians. Currently serving as Assistant Professor of Jazz at Ithaca College and Visiting Lecturer of Drumset at Cornell University, he brings a wealth of experience from both the classroom and the stage. With undergraduate and graduate degrees from the Eastman School of Music, Staebell spent 15 years as a public school music teacher before transitioning to higher education, where he directs jazz ensembles and mentors drumset students. His teaching extends beyond academia through his consulting collective, Sounds of the True North, which collaborates with school music programs across the Northeast to foster creativity and community.
A sought-after clinician, Staebell has published multiple educational resources, including Inspired By Masters, a collection of drumset solos selected for the advanced beginner. His dynamic approach to teaching is informed by years of professional performance, appearing on several recordings and in live performances. Staebell also served for 3.5 years as the Manager of Educational Resources for Hal Leonard, the world’s largest music publisher, and now continues to work in the music industry as a consultant.
Whether in the classroom, on stage, or through his work in the industry, Staebell is committed to shaping musicians who are expressive, passionate, and versatile