James Petercsak holds the rank of SUNY Distinguished Teaching Professor, and has served as the percussion faculty member at SUNY Potsdam's internationally known Crane School of Music since 1967. He has been recognized as a University Scholar & United University Professionals Best Award Winner. In 2003, he was honored by the SUNY Potsdam Alumni Association with an Honorary Life Membership. He is a former international president of the Percussive Arts Society, and today his students hold prestigious faculty appointments at many of the world's finest colleges and universities, as well as senior executive positions in the music products industry.
Petercsak has toured throughout Europe, the Middle East and Asia under the auspices of the Cultural Program of the United States. He also performed with Liza Minelli, Dianne Warwick, Melissa Manchester, Johnny Mathis, Sammy Davis Jr., Barry Manilow, Tom Jones, and Shirley Bassey. Jim has had many articles and methods published including “Double-Drums” with Louie Bellson and “Big Bad and Beautiful” with Roy Burns. Currently, Jim is head of the percussion area at the Crane School where he teaches applied percussion and directs the award winning Crane Percussion Ensemble. Jim is in demand as a performer, conductor, clinician, consultant, as well as a music industry personality and visionary.
