Meet Jared Eichler!
“I had always grown up a Golden Flash,” said Jared. “My family would always go to the basketball games and see the energy that was brought to the MACC. I enjoyed watching the Flasher Brass perform at the games and it even encouraged me to go into music. When it came to choosing what college I wanted to go to, there really wasn’t any other choice as clear as Kent State.”
Major: Music Education
Minor: Mild to Moderate Special Education
Graduation Date: Fall 2025
Hometown: Randolph Ohio
Why did you choose to study music education?
I am a music education major because I wanted to share the joy of music with my students. Music is something that connects us all and it is important that schools see the value of music.
In your time at Kent State, what are some accomplishments you are proud of?
I think one thing I am most proud of myself is being the drum major for the marching band on campus. This has provided me with so many opportunities to develop my leadership skills that will transfer to my future classroom. Another accomplishment that I have been fortunate to have experienced is performing in the National Intercollegiate Band in July of 2023. Musicians from around the country were chosen to perform advanced-level music and have the opportunity to perform a world premiere piece by Grammy Award-winning commissioned composer Michael Daugherty. This experience was probably one of the coolest experiences in my life.
What would you like to do after graduation?
After graduation, I would like to teach in the public schools for about 3-5 years then go to get my masters in conducting.
What clubs and organizations are you involved in on campus?
I am involved in Kent State’s chapter of OCMEA, a professional organization open to all music education students. I am also a brother of Kappa Kappa Psi, a national honorary band fraternity where I serve as the vice president for membership.
How has the School of Music made a difference to you?
My school has taught me to view music is a completely different way. I really thought music was just something that was to be made in school, but it is an art that connects us all and should be valued everywhere.
What do you love about the School of Music?
I love the sense of community the School of Music offers. We are all so close together and it feels like a family. We are all so supportive of each others endeavors and what to see each other succeed.
What has been your favorite class at Kent State?
Instrumental Methods 1 and 2! We really dug deep into what it means to be a music teacher. I valued every class we had because we got into some really good discussions. I also enjoyed working with the Career and Community Study (CCS) program on campus to help my peers learn instruments!
What are your favorite campus events?
My favorite events on campus have to either be football games or any concert the school of music has. I love seeing everyone come together, not worry about their classes and just having fun.
What is your best memory at Kent State?
I think my best memory at Kent State has to be seeing the support President Diacon has for the band and music program come to life. The new uniforms for the marching band, the renovations in the school of music and the building of the Band Educational Facility really showcases the love our president has for music. We are so lucky to have him as our president. I came from a school where music was not really valued so seeing all of this support gives me hope that more people are seeing the value in music.
What is your favorite part of working on campus?
I have been fortunate enough to work in the bands office at Kent State. I love being able to see what goes on behind the scenes of being a band director and learning all of the logistics that come into play. This will be so valuable when I get my first job.
Do you have advice for others?
Never let anyone not let you be yourself! Choose joy all the time!
Quick Facts:
Where is the best place to study?
Cartwright Hall or the Performing Arts Library
Do you have hobbies?
I love nature and playing “Hollow Knight” on my Switch.
What is your favorite movie?
“Finding Nemo”
What show are you currently watching?
“House of the Dragon”
What song do you have on repeat?
“TYRANT” by Beyoncé and Dolly Parton
What is your favorite place to get food in Kent?
Barrio
What is your favorite book?
“Catching Fire” by Suzanne Collins
What is your go-to coffee order?
Iced coffee with oat milk
Jared Eichler will be performing his senior recital on November 24 in Ludwig Recital Hall. All student recitals are free and open to the public.