JD has been teaching cymbals at Cap City and CC2 since 2021. He initially fell in love with the marching arts in Omaha, Nebraska, in his first year performing with Dojo Percussion in 2015. He went on to march with various other ensembles, including Cap City, with his final year as a performer being in 2019. He has also been actively teaching around the central Ohio area, being involved in groups including Kent State University, Central Crossing High School, Thomas Worthington High School, and Triple Crown Percussion.

JD currently lives in Columbus, OH, pursuing his master’s in social work while working full-time as a therapist at an inpatient substance abuse treatment facility. He also works with SMART Columbus as a consultant for Columbus’s community information exchange initiative.

Through the diverse experience of marching at different drum corps and indoor ensembles around the country, he has developed a deep understanding and love for the instrument and the traditions that come with the culture of cymbal playing. His approach to teaching is based on the belief that performance arts are the means to greater personal growth that extends far beyond the limits of the tarp.