Sean J. Kennedy is a highly accomplished musician and educator whose dynamic career spans diverse performance roles, leadership of his own ensembles, and a prolific output as a recording artist and author. In addition to his performance work, he devotes significant time to music education and regularly presents at industry events. The Philadelphia Inquirer described Kennedy's work as featuring "intense and sometimes far-out live performances," while jazz legend Dave Brubeck praised him, saying, "Your drumming sounds like it should; it swings!"

Q: What is your primary role and area of expertise?

A: I'm a versatile drummer, percussionist, composer, and educator specializing in jazz, classical, rock, and contemporary styles.

Q: How long have you been directing the WMU at Wissahickon?

A: 2025 marks my 11th year!

Q: What are your key ongoing performance roles?

A: I've been Principal Percussionist for the Philadelphia Boys Choir & Chorale since 2004 and also perform with The Doc Severinsen Tribute Band and The Gardyn Jazz Orchestra.

Q: Which artists and ensembles have you worked with?

A: I've played with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Jacksonville Symphony, and The Philly POPS!, and toured with Lindsey Stirling, Roger Daltrey, Evanescence, Il Volo, and Warren Haynes.

Q: What are some iconic venues you've performed at?

A: Carnegie Hall, David Geffen Hall (Lincoln Center), Radio City Music Hall, and the Kennedy Center.

Q: Have you been featured in national media?

A: Yes, including two Good Morning America performances live from Times Square.

Q: Tell us about your work as a recording artist and author.

A: I lead The Sean J. Kennedy Quartet (albums: Road to Wailea, Queen Anne’s Revenge, Hey! Where’s My Tux?!. I've collaborated with Bob Mintzer and Liberty DeVitto, and my music is in The Philadelphia Real Book, Vol. II. I've authored eight instructional books, including Camp Jam: Rock Solid Drums and I Used to Play Drums.

Q: What is The Rolling Buzzards Brigade?

A: It's a virtual ensemble I founded, blending traditional rudimental drumming with modern interpretations. Our 2020 release, The Downfall of Paris, featured Dame Evelyn Glennie and members of Canadian Brass and the Philadelphia Orchestra.

Q: What’s your role in music education?

A: I direct jazz ensemble and percussion studies at Arcadia University and have taught in public schools since 1996. I regularly present at PASIC and NAMM, and gave a TEDx Talk, "Happy Accidents: Drumming Up Serendipity."

Q: What are your academic credentials?

A: I hold a B.S. in Music Education and M.M. in Percussion Performance from West Chester University, and completed a Doctor of Arts in Music (jazz drum set focus) at William Carey University.

Q: Do you hold any distinctions in the percussion community?

A: I'm a Guinness World Record holder, serve on the Percussive Arts Society Drum Set Committee, and am Secretary of the PAS Pennsylvania Chapter.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote?

A: "Under pressure, you don’t rise to the occasion, you sink to the level of your training." – Archilochus