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Sean J. Kennedy

Dave Brubeck stated that Sean’s drumming, “… sounds like it should-- it swings!”

About Me

Sean J. Kennedy is an American drummer and percussionist known for his dynamic performances, educational contributions, and leadership in the percussion community. Since 2004, he has served as Principal Percussionist for the Philadelphia Boys Choir & Chorale and as the drummer for The Gardyn Jazz Orchestra and The Doc Severinsen Tribute Band.

Kennedy’s diverse career spans orchestras such as the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, and The Philly POPS! Orchestra, and collaborations with artists like Lindsey Stirling, Roger Daltrey, Evanescence, and Warren Haynes. Dave Brubeck praised his playing: “Your drumming sounds like it should, it swings!”

Sean J. Kennedy teaches at Arcadia University and in the Upper Dublin and Wissahickon School Districts. He has presented at events like the NAMM GenNext Session and PASIC, sharing his expertise in drumset and percussion. His TEDx Talk, “Happy Accidents: Drumming Up Serendipity,” explores the drumset’s historical development and role in innovation. A Guinness World Record holder, he has also authored acclaimed books on drumming, percussion, and jazz, published by Alfred Music and Carl Fischer Music.

Kennedy holds a Master of Music in Percussion Performance and a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from West Chester University. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Arts in Music with a focus on jazz drumset at William Carey University.

A leader in the percussion community, Kennedy is a member of the Percussive Arts Society Drum Set Committee and serves as secretary for the Pennsylvania chapter of PAS. He is also an Artist Endorser for Canopus Drums, Zildjian Cymbals, Vic Firth Drumsticks, Grover Pro Percussion, Evans Drumheads, Casio Keyboards, RimRiserUSA, One Beat Better, and The Drum Wallet.