Jason L. DeGroff, M.A.

About Jason

Jason DeGroff is the Director of Bands at the University of New Haven where he directs the Chargers Marching Band, Jazz Band, and Concert Band, and teaches Music Theory and Introduction to Music classes. DeGroff holds a Masters and Bachelors Degree in Music Education (trumpet/conducting) from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA. While there, he was a five-year member of the Minuteman Marching Band, and later was the Graduate T.A. for George N. Parks and the Marching Band. He also studied trumpet under Walter Chesnut, conducting under Malcolm Rowell, and performed in the wind ensemble, symphony band, jazz band, concert band, pep band, brass quintet, brass choir, a’ccapela choir and the spring drumline, under the direction of DCI Hall of Famer Thomas P. Hannum.

DeGroff has worked at all levels in instrumental music; as an elementary and middle school band director, an assistant high school band director, and a college marching band director. He revived the marching band at Central CT State University where he served as Director for five years. DeGroff is currently the drill designer for the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, winners of the Sudler Trophy, an award given to the best college marching band in the country. In addition, he designs marching band shows throughout the country. He is currently on the visual staff with the Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps where he was also a member for three years (1989-1991) of the 10-time World Champions.

Recently, DeGroff finished his first country album at A Writer’s Paradise Studios in Nashville, TN. He is a guest lecturer and guest conductor as well as a consultant with numerous marching band programs throughout the country.