Professional development, Music education, Educational technology, Leadership, Entrepreneurship Jake Douglass Professional development, Music education, Educational technology, Leadership, Entrepreneurship Jake Douglass

Jake Douglass Curriculum Vitae

Jake Douglass is a pioneering force in digital music education and educational technology. As the founder and CEO of Practicing Musician, he has transformed music education accessibility through innovative curriculum design and technology solutions. His leadership has expanded the company's reach to 56 countries while developing comprehensive learning programs for over 20 instruments.

With an Executive Development Program completion from the University of Washington Foster School of Business and recent Harvard Business School Online certification, Douglass combines educational expertise with business acumen. His work includes managing a network of 145+ contributors, developing patent-pending educational technology, and creating a library of over 3,500 video tutorials and 3,000 compositions.

Currently serving as a board member for multiple organizations, including the Classical Transcription Project and Worshiping Musician, Douglass continues to shape the future of music education through technology-driven solutions and equitable access initiatives.

Jake Douglass
Founder and CEO
Board Member
Ph.D. and Masters Lecturer

For my address and contact information, contact me here. 

EDUCATION 

  • Financial Accounting Certificate

    • Harvard Business School Online - August 2024 

  • Executive Development Program (Executive MBA) 

    • University of Washington Foster School of Business - May 2023 

  • 200-hour Yoga Teaching Certification 

    • Yoga Alliance through Richmond Beach Yoga - August 2014

  • Bachelor of Psychology 

    • Pitzer College; Claremont, California - May 2012 

 

WORK EXPERIENCE 

  • Founding Member – Board of Directors 

    • Classical Transcription Project - July 2024-present

      • Facilitated incorporation 

      • Participate in strategic planning and fiscal oversight

      • Ensure CTP fulfills its mission and maintains financial stability 

      • Oversee development of programs and services 

      • Foster relationships with stakeholders in the classical music community 

      • Guide technological integration, including partnership with Practicing Musician 

      • Ensure compliance with non-profit legal and ethical standards 

  • Founding Chairman of the Board 

    • Worshiping Musician - Jan 2023-present 

      • Facilitated incorporation 

      • Set the board's agenda in collaboration with the CEO and preside over board meetings 

      • Work with the CEO to develop and refine the company's strategic direction 

      • Ensure the company adheres to proper corporate governance practices 

      • Oversee the implementation of board decisions 

      • Act as a liaison between the board and major shareholders 

      • Represent the company in high-level meetings with partners, investors, or government officials 

      • Evaluate the CEO's performance 

      • Lead the process of hiring, compensating, and if necessary, replacing the CEO 

      • Ensure the integrity of financial reporting 

      • Review and approve annual budgets and major capital expenditures 

      • Oversee the company's risk management strategies 

      • Ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations 

      • Promote ethical business practices 

      • Help shape and maintain the company's culture 

      • Regularly review the company's performance against its goals 

      • Ensure the board receives timely and accurate information 

  • Founder and CEO 

  • Practicing Musician - May 2017-present 

    • Designed, wrote, and produced multimedia curriculum for 20 instruments 

    • Personally beta-tested in five Seattle-area schools for an entire school year 

    • Designed and implemented business model 

    • Successfully bootstrapped the company to national adoption in just four years 

    • Hired and managed an internal team of 25 dedicated professionals and a network of over 145 contributors across various departments 

    • Designed and developed scalable technologies to support personalized learning, including a patent-pending solution that aims to revolutionize education across multiple disciplines 

    • Implemented actionable corporate strategies for global scaling, resulting in PM's reach growing to 56 countries 

    • Collaborated with industry-leading advisors to refine knowledge and skills in technology, instructional design, marketing, logistics, account management, product development, business development, professional development, and eCommerce 

    • Developed and expanded PM's offerings, including the world-class online platform for K-12 music programs and homeschoolers, mentorship programs, micro tutoring services, and an eCommerce store for instruments and accessories 

    • Spearheaded the Music Educator Online Learning Project, crowdsourcing resources for the benefit of all music educators, resulting in a growing library of over 3,500 video tutorials, 3,000 compositions, and 3,000 assignments and assessments 

    • Continuously worked towards the goal of creating truly equitable access to high quality music education, empowering every child to participate in a program that speaks to their unique, expressive needs and expands their aesthetic sensibilities 

  • Columnist 

    • In Tune Partners - Sep 2021-May 2024 

      • Write the column "Your Passion, Their Success: Modern Teaching Best Practices from Practicing Musician" for the Teacher's Edition of In Tune Magazine 

      • Share expertise in modern teaching best practices, drawing from Practicing Musician's successful Music Educator Online Learning Project and extensive experience in music education technology 

      • Provide insights and strategies to help educators personalize learning experiences, leverage technology, and create equitable access to high-quality music education 

      • Collaborate with In Tune Partners to promote innovative solutions and resources that support music educators and students nationwide 

      • Contribute to the broader conversation surrounding the future of music education, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, collaboration, and technology integration in today's rapidly evolving landscape 

  • Band Director 

    • Gateway Academy (Homeschool Co-op) - Sep 2021-May 2022 

      • Led and directed the beginning concert band program for homeschooled students, implementing Practicing Musician's comprehensive instrumental music education curriculum 

      • Provided foundational instruction across concert band instruments, including woodwinds, brass, and percussion

      • Developed and executed lesson plans following research-based teaching methodologies focused on building proper instrument technique, music theory, and ensemble skills 

      • Facilitated both individual student growth and ensemble development through structured practice techniques and performance preparation 

      • Created an engaging learning environment that fostered student musicianship while accommodating diverse skill levels and learning styles 

      • Collaborated with homeschool parents to support student practice and musical development between classes 

      • Implemented assessment strategies to track student progress and provide constructive feedback for continued growth 

      • Organized and conducted performances to showcase student achievement and ensemble progress 

  • Private Instructor of Flute, Piano, Drumset and Percussion 

    • Self-employed - Jan 2013-July 2019 

      • Offered personalized private instruction to aspiring musicians of all skill levels and ages 8+ 

      • Utilized 25 years of experience to develop trust and foster student growth 

      • Developed customized lesson plans to cater to individual learning styles and goals 

      • Provided regular feedback and progress reports to students and parents 

      • Maintained a professional studio environment conducive to learning and creativity 

      • Stayed current with industry trends and pedagogical techniques through ongoing professional development 

      • Managed scheduling, billing, and administrative tasks to ensure smooth operations

      • Built a strong reputation in the local music community, attracting new students through referrals and networking 

      • Fostered a passion for lifelong learning and appreciation for music in all students 

  • President 

    • Pitzer College Music Coalition - Sep 2011-May 2012 

      • Secured funding for equipment acquisition and replacement 

      • Developed, supported, and mentored new bands and performers 

      • Cultivated relationships with various departments to showcase live music events 

      • Organized and promoted concerts, workshops, and other music-related events on campus 

      • Managed the club's budget and allocated resources effectively 

      • Collaborated with other student organizations to create multidisciplinary events and initiatives 

      • Represented the Music Coalition at college-wide meetings and forums 

      • Recruited new members and encouraged student participation in music related activities 

      • Created a supportive and inclusive environment for students with diverse musical interests and backgrounds 

      • Led regular meetings and facilitated discussions to gather input and feedback from club members 

  • Manager 

    • Pitzer College Sound Crew - Jan 2010-May 2012 

      • Organized and managed audio, visual components, artist relations, and equipment for diverse events 

      • Coordinated with event organizers to understand their technical requirements and expectations 

      • Set up, operated, and troubleshot sound and lighting equipment for various events 

      • Managed a team of paid student staff, assigning roles and responsibilities based on individual skills and interests 

      • Provided training and guidance to team members on the proper use and maintenance of equipment 

      • Developed and implemented safety protocols to ensure the well-being of crew members and event attendees 

      • Collaborated with other college departments, such as facilities and IT, to ensure smooth event execution 

      • Managed inventory and maintained equipment in good working condition 

      • Stayed current with industry trends and best practices in event production and management 

      • Coordinated with artists and their representatives to facilitate sound checks and address any technical concerns 

      • Provided exceptional customer service to event organizers, attendees, and performers 

      • Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think on your feet in high-pressure situations 

PRESENTATIONS 

  1. The Future of Music Education (2025), Practicing Musician’s First Annual Winter Workshop Keynote

  2. Effective Use of Practicing Musician V4 (2024), Practicing Musician’s Fourth Annual Summer Symposium. 

  3. Effective Use of Practicing Musician V3 (2023), Practicing Musician’s Third Annual Summer Symposium. 

  4. Individualized Instruction for Mastery (2023), Practicing Musician’s year-round workshops. 

  5. Personalized Mentorship for Homeschooling Parents (2023), Gateway Academy Homeschool Co-op. 

  6. Equity in Education (2022), Practicing Musician’s year-round workshops. 

  7. Practicing Musician 101 (2022), State Education Agency Directors of Arts Education Watercooler.  

  8. Utilizing Instrument Rentals as Music Program Fundraisers (2022), Dade County Music Educators Association. 

  9. Effective Use of Practicing Musician V2 (2022), Practicing Musician’s Second Annual Summer Symposium. 

  10. Music as a Spiritual Tool (2022), Practicing Musician’s year-round workshops. 

  11. Implementing Music Technology in the Classroom (2021), Kansas Department of Education. 

  12. Educational Technology of the Future (2021), Knight Foundation and Miami Foundation. 

  13. Your Passion, Their Success! Keynote Speech, Practicing Musician’s First Annual Summer Symposium.  

  14. Effective Use of Practicing Musician V1 (2021), Practicing Musician’s First Annual Summer Symposium. 

  15. Free world-class music education that meets the needs of all students (2021), Wichita Public Schools. 

  16. A Comprehensive Guide to Getting Your Time Back (2020), International Music Education Summit. 

  17. Music Educator Online Learning Project Orientation (2020), Music Educator Online Learning Project Forum. 

  18. Implementing Music Technology in the Classroom (2020), NAfME Northwest Division Conference. 

  19. Narrowing the Achievement Gap (2019), Washington Music Educators Association Conference. 

IN SERVICES 

  1. San Diego City Unified School District (2024) 

  2. San Bernardino City Unified School District (2024) 

  3. San Bernardino City Unified School District (2023) 

  4. Miami-Dade County Public Schools (2023) 

  5. San Bernardino City Unified School District (2022) 

  6. Miami-Dade County Public Schools (2022) 

  7. San Bernardino City Unified Public Schools (2021)  

  8. Miami-Dade County Public Schools (2021) 

  9. Wichita Public Schools (2021) 

  10. Miami-Dade County Public Schools (2020) 

CURRICULUM DESIGN 

  1. Oversaw instructional design of full scope and sequence, managed composers for all sheet music, and planned production of video tutorials for an online multimedia concert band method 3 (2022-23 – still in production) 

    1. Teacher manual 

    2. Flute 

    3. Oboe 

    4. Bb Clarinet 

    5. Bassoon 

    6. Alto Saxophone 

    7. Tenor Saxophone 

    8. Bb Trumpet 

    9. French Horn 

    10. Trombone 

    11. Baritone 

    12. Tuba 

    13. Percussion (glockenspiel, crash cymbal, snare drum, bass drum) 

  1. Oversaw instructional design of full scope and sequence, managed composers for all sheet music, and planned production of video tutorials for an online multimedia orchestra method 2 (2022-23 – still in production) 

    1. Teacher manual 

    2. Violin 

    3. Viola 

    4. Cello 

    5. Upright Bass  

  1. Oversaw instructional design of full scope and sequence, managed composers for all sheet music, and planned production of video tutorials for an online multimedia concert band method 2 (2021 – still in production) 

    1. Teacher manual 

    2. Flute 

    3. Oboe 

    4. Bb Clarinet 

    5. Bassoon 

    6. Alto Saxophone 

    7. Tenor Saxophone 

    8. Bb Trumpet 

    9. French Horn 

    10. Trombone 

    11. Baritone 

    12. Tuba 

    13. Percussion (glockenspiel, crash cymbal, snare drum, bass drum) 

  1. Oversaw instructional design of full scope and sequence, managed composers for all sheet music, and planned production of video tutorials for an online multimedia orchestra method 2 (2021 – still in production) 

    1. Teacher manual 

    2. Violin 

    3. Viola 

    4. Cello 

    5. Upright Bass 

  1. Personally designed of full scope and sequence, composed all sheet music, and produced all video tutorials for an online multimedia concert band method 1 (2017) 

    1. Teacher manual 

    2. Flute 

    3. Oboe 

    4. Bb Clarinet 

    5. Bassoon 

    6. Alto Saxophone 

    7. Tenor Saxophone 

    8. Bb Trumpet 

    9. French Horn 

    10. Trombone 

    11. Baritone 

    12. Tuba 

    13. Percussion (glockenspiel, crash cymbal, snare drum, bass drum) 

  1. Personally designed of full scope and sequence, composed all sheet music, and produced all video tutorials for an online multimedia orchestra method 1 (2017) 

    1. Teacher manual 

    2. Violin 

    3. Viola 

    4. Cello 

    5. Upright Bass 

TECHNOLOGY DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT LEADERSHIP

  1. Led conceptualization and strategic development of Practicing Musician's comprehensive educational technology platform, including the learning management system, micro tutoring infrastructure, and content delivery systems

  2. Architected innovative student progress tracking and assessment tools that integrate Model Cornerstone Assessments, enabling personalized learning paths within the ensemble context and mastery-based advancement

  3. Spearheaded development of a scalable video tutorial system supporting over 3,500 instrument-specific lessons with synchronized sheet music and practice materials

  4. Designed intuitive user interfaces and learning flows for multiple user types (K-12 educators, students, homeschool families, administrators) to ensure accessibility and engagement

  5. Developed specifications for cross-platform compatibility, enabling seamless access across devices while maintaining offline learning capabilities

  6. Architected integration systems for managing diverse content types including video tutorials, sheet music, assignments, and assessments within a unified learning environment

  7. Led development of robust analytics and reporting tools to track student progress, practice time, and learning outcomes

  8. Designed and implemented security protocols to ensure COPPA and FERPA compliance for handling student data

  9. Oversaw development of administrative tools for content management, user management, and program oversight

PATENTS 

  1. U.S. Patent Application No. 18/673,158: METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ONLINE ARTIFACT CREATION AND MANAGEMENT (2024) 

Trademarks

  1.  Practicing Musician

  2. Large Music Model - pending

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