Jakob joined Orange Coast Unitarian Universalist Church as Director of Music Ministries in October 2023.
He attended California State University Fullerton, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Choral Music Education and a Minor in African American Studies. He earned his AA degree in music at Orange Coast College, and was the student director of the acclaimed Orange Coast College Chamber Singers for one semester, and the Orange Coast College Chorale for one year. His research has included topics such as the cantatas of J.S. Bach, the performance practice of African American Spirituals and his work as a conductor while still being a student. Jakob has studied voice with Nadia Smelser, Brian Farrell and Janet Smith; his conducting mentors include Eliza Rubenstein (OCC, OC Women’s Choir), Dr. Christopher Peterson (CSUF) and Dr. Robert Istad (CSUF, Pacific Chorale).
When not in the practice room or at school, Jakob can be found drinking coffee, traveling with his mom, or spending time with his dog, Penny. He is the proud recipient of the 2017 Walt Gleckler Memorial Scholarship (Orange Coast College) for his excellence in musicianship and choral conducting. Jakob currently sings as a volunteer singer with the award-winning Pacific Chorale.