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Jack Rago, percussion

Timpanist/percussionist Jack Rago was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania where he developed an interest in music at an early age.  Although originally wanting to play drums in a rock band; his focus gradually shifted to classical music, which led him to study music performance at West Virginia University.  While there he played in a variety of ensembles including the orchestra, wind symphony, several jazz bands, steel band, and African drum ensemble.

Upon graduating, Jack began his master’s degree at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh where he studied with members of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.  In the years since, he remained active as a freelance percussionist.  Ensembles he has performed with include the Erie Philharmonic (which he was acting Principal Timpanist), Pittsburgh Symphony, Baltimore Symphony, Fort Worth Symphony, River City Brass Band, as well as other groups in the Pittsburgh area.

Jack was recently appointed Principal Timpanist of the Omaha Symphony.  Outside of music, he is an avid Pittsburgh sports fan.