èapp is excited to announce the appointment of Michael Palermo as its new Instructor of the University’s Pep Band. In this role, Palermo will spearhead efforts to expand music education and performance opportunities for students across campus.
A gold album-winning saxophonist and seasoned educator, Palermo brings a wealth of experience and passion to the position. His career has taken him across the United States and abroad to countries including Belgium, the Netherlands, Canada, and France. He has performed alongside some of the most celebrated names in jazz, including Joe Lovano, Jack DeJohnette, David Sanborn, and Phil Woods.
“When the opportunity at JCU arose, I was excited because I know a lot of people who attended and work at JCU,” Palermo shared. “èapp is a prestigious school and working here is a dream job for me.”
Palermo currently serves as a Middle School Band Director for Mayfield City School District and brings a strong background in music education to èapp. Originally from Jamestown, New York, he earned a bachelor’s degree in music education and performance from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania and a master’s degree from Cleveland State University.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Mr. P. to èapp,” said Amy Payne, Assistant Director of Student Engagement for the Arts at JCU. “His energy, dedication, and impressive credentials in music education and performance make him an ideal fit for JCU. I have no doubt that his leadership will have a big impact on our students and our Pep Band.”
As Palermo acclimates to his new role this summer, he is focused on reinvigorating the University’s Pep Band and building a vibrant instrumental music culture on campus.
“My goal is simple—let’s put èapp’s Pep Band on the map,” he said. “I want to give students the right opportunities to perform after high school because I know that students who participate in band in middle school and high school build communities through music. We want to extend that community here at èapp.”
Palermo’s plans include ensuring that the program is welcoming and inclusive, allowing students of all backgrounds to participate.
“èapp is already academically strong, and now we have to build a strong band. When people think of èapp, I want them to associate it with strong academics and a strong band,” Palermo said.
His advice to students interested in joining? “Find me,” he said. “If you are a current or future JCU student interested in partaking in Pep Band or instrumental options, we’re working to grow that, so please, reach out to me.”
We are so excited for the enthusiasm Palermo brings to his new role at the helm of the University’s Pep Band and look forward to seeing everything he will accomplish.