Jack Milzarek is a passionate music educator, percussionist, and conductor currently serving as the Director of Bands for Warsaw R-IX School District in Warsaw, Missouri. In this role, he leads the district's 6–12 band program, directing concert and marching ensembles while working to build a culture of musical excellence, leadership, and lifelong appreciation for music. Jack is dedicated to creating engaging musical experiences that challenge students while fostering confidence, discipline, and teamwork.
Jack earned his Bachelor of Music Education degree from Pittsburg State University in 2020 before completing a Master of Music in Percussion Performance at the University of Missouri–Kansas City in 2022. While at UMKC, he studied with the internationally acclaimed percussion ensemble Sandbox Percussion, developing a strong foundation in contemporary percussion performance. He continued his professional development by attending the Sandbox Percussion Summer Seminar in 2023, further refining his artistry and connecting with performers and educators from across the country.
In addition to his work in public education, Jack serves as Adjunct Professor of Percussion at Missouri Southern State University in Joplin, Missouri, where he teaches applied percussion and shares his passion for performance and pedagogy with collegiate musicians. He remains an active performer throughout the region, appearing regularly with community ensembles across Missouri and Kansas.
Jack has been recognized for his achievements as a performer, most notably winning the Four State Symphonic Winds Concerto Competition in 2023, where he performed Ney Rosauro's Concerto for Timpani and Orchestra.
Whether on the podium, in the classroom, or on the concert stage, Jack is committed to inspiring the next generation of musicians through meaningful musical experiences and a lifelong pursuit of excellence. Outside of music, he enjoys cooking, following the Chicago Cubs, and spending time with his wife, Lindsey, who is also a music educator, and their growing family.
