Jonathan Haas, Professor of Music and Director of Percussion Studies at NYU Steinhardt, was recently interviewed by Zarro Percussion, offering insight into his career as a performer, educator, and conductor. At NYU, he leads Percussion Studies, co-directs the Orchestra Program, and conducts the Contemporary Music Ensemble. He also maintains an active professional career as Principal Percussionist of the American Symphony and Principal Timpanist of both the New York Pops at Carnegie Hall and the Aspen Chamber Symphony.
Haas is internationally recognized for elevating the timpani as a solo instrument. He commissioned and premiered Philip Glass’s Concerto Fantasy for Two Timpanists and Orchestra, performing it more than seventy times with major orchestras worldwide. His wide-ranging collaborations span classical, rock, jazz, and new music, including performances and recordings with Emerson Lake and Palmer, Aerosmith, Black Sabbath, The Who, and the Grammy-winning Zappa’s Universe. He is also the author of Jazz Virtuostics for Timpani and President of Gemini Music Productions.
As a teacher and mentor, Haas draws inspiration from both his legendary teachers and the many students he has guided throughout his four-decade career. His philosophy emphasizes preparation, curiosity, and the belief that performing and teaching are inseparable. With timpani at the center of his musical life, he encourages students to follow what excites them most—knowing that joy and passion are the foundation of great music-making.
