Contact Information
Name: Jordan Shippy
Title: Lecturer in Music
Office Location: Capistrano 447
Email: jordan.shippy@csus.edu
Education : DMA, University of Oklahoma
Courses Taught : Applied Music - Percussion (classical)
Profile
Get to Know Me!
1. What do you like about teaching?
What I love most about teaching is the opportunity to work closely with students in one-on-one or small group settings. These formats allow me to truly get to know each student’s unique interests, strengths, and challenges. This personalized approach lets me tailor the learning experience, ensuring that students not only meet course objectives but do so in a way that’s meaningful to them. I find it incredibly rewarding to collaborate with students on their individual learning paths and see them succeed in ways that feel personally relevant. It’s in these moments that I feel we’re doing our best work together.
2. Have you ever wanted to quit music? How have you persevered? How do you recharge musically? What keeps you coming back to music? Where does your creativity come from?
There have definitely been moments throughout my career when I’ve seriously considered walking away from music. In those times, it was often a teacher, a fellow musician, or a memorable performance that reminded me of the joy I find in music. Whether it was a specific piece, a class, or just a moment of inspiration, something always brought me back. I also took a short break from music, which, in hindsight, I’d call more of an “extended pause.” During that time, I felt like something was missing—like an itch I couldn’t quite scratch. Eventually, after a few months, the urge to play returned, and with it, my passion for music was reignited. Music, for me, has always been something I return to because it’s deeply woven into who I am, and that creative spark is something I can’t ignore for long.
3. Do you come from a musical family?
Yes, I come from a musical family. My mom has always had a deep love for music and worked hard to expose my siblings and me to it. My brother played percussion in high school, was part of the marching band, and even studied audio engineering. My sister took voice lessons and still sings occasionally. While music has been an important part of all our lives, I’m the only one who chose to pursue it professionally.
Professional Bio
Percussionist Jordan Shippy is an active performer and educator who has presented in venues across the United States including Lindenwood University, Southeastern Oklahoma State University, and Arkansas Tech University. Jordan most often performs as a soloist and with his percussion chamber group, Colour Me Crimson, and frequently commissions new repertoire from underrepresented composers.
In addition to performing, Jordan serves as the percussion faculty at Sacramento State, conducts clinics at local high schools in the greater Sacramento area, and is a Black Swamp Percussion Educator. He holds a DMA and MM in percussion performance from the University of Oklahoma and Sacramento State, respectively.