Violin, Viola
Jacob Unruh is a violinist and teacher whose curiosity has led him to explore both classical and jazz music. Currently pursuing a master's degree in jazz performance at the University of North Texas, he is developing an inviting improvisational voice that celebrates the unknown. Initially a classical violin major at the Lamont School of Music at the University of Denver, he became interested in jazz after visiting clubs with friends and improvising in practice rooms. Drawn to the spontaneous collective creation of music, he changed his major to jazz studies and designed much of his own curriculum.
At Lamont, he studied with jazz faculty Annie Booth, Peter Stoltzman, Bijoux Barbosa, Donna Wickham, and Art Bouton, while continuing classical lessons with soloist Igor Pikayzen. He now studies with jazz violinist Scott Tixier. He composed and performed Olympic Gardens, a three-movement work for string quartet and jazz rhythm section, and performed in a feature with the Lamont Jazz Orchestra led by saxophonist Remy LeBoeuf. He graduated with a B.M. in Jazz Studies and Commercial Music in 2024.
Since 2022, Jacob has shared his musical expertise and fascination in group classes and private lessons. Professionally trained in both classical and jazz music, he offers a unique approach that emphasizes learning by ear to create an embodied understanding of music. His goal is to empower his students to be musicians by solving problems together, providing structure, and engaging in the communal nature of music. He teaches with patience, enthusiasm, and dedication, aiming to help students develop the confidence and skills to build their musical worlds and navigate today's musical landscape.