Kendall Wooden
- Commercial Music Ensemble
Additional Information
Biography
Kendall Wooden is a dynamic and versatile percussionist, educator, and composer based in Omaha, Nebraska. Holding a Bachelor of Music in Music Performance and a Master of Music in Jazz Studies, Wooden has established himself as a sought-after freelance musician throughout the Midwest. As a professor at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, he directs the Commercial Music Hip-Hop Ensemble, fostering innovation at the intersection of contemporary and improvisational music. In addition to his work in higher education, Wooden is a dedicated jazz and percussion educator at Omaha Central High School and serves as the Drumline Instructor at Elkhorn South High School, mentoring young musicians and shaping the next generation of percussionists. His contributions to jazz and contemporary performance have been recognized with a Global Music Award, earned alongside UNO Jazz 1 and José Valentino.
Wooden is an active performer across multiple genres, collaborating with artists such as Edem Soul Music, Tylynn, fusion band Paper Canaries, and Marcey Yates. He is also a core member of Omaha Street Percussion and leads FISSION, a fusion ensemble that blends jazz, rock, and electronic elements. His extensive performance résumé includes work with local and regional acts such as The Toast Band, Patrick Lentz Entertainment, and the Marcus Lewis Big Band, as well as the acclaimed project "Brass and Boujee". His versatility has also led him to perform with the Omaha Symphony, showcasing his ability to navigate both classical and contemporary settings.
Beyond live performance, Wooden has contributed to numerous recording projects, lending his talents to several albums over the years. He also operates a private drum set studio, where he teaches, records, writes, and produces, providing students with a comprehensive musical education. Expanding his creative horizons, he recently debuted an electronic duo project in January 2025, further solidifying his reputation as a forward-thinking artist. At the heart of Wooden’s artistry and career is his faith and devotion to God, which serve as his guiding force in both music and life. His family remains his foundation, providing unwavering support and inspiration as he continues to grow as a musician, educator, and individual. Whether on stage, in the studio, or in the classroom, Kendall Wooden strives to uplift others through his music, blending technical mastery with heartfelt expression and an unwavering commitment to his faith and family.
Additional Information
Biography
Kendall Wooden is a dynamic and versatile percussionist, educator, and composer based in Omaha, Nebraska. Holding a Bachelor of Music in Music Performance and a Master of Music in Jazz Studies, Wooden has established himself as a sought-after freelance musician throughout the Midwest. As a professor at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, he directs the Commercial Music Hip-Hop Ensemble, fostering innovation at the intersection of contemporary and improvisational music. In addition to his work in higher education, Wooden is a dedicated jazz and percussion educator at Omaha Central High School and serves as the Drumline Instructor at Elkhorn South High School, mentoring young musicians and shaping the next generation of percussionists. His contributions to jazz and contemporary performance have been recognized with a Global Music Award, earned alongside UNO Jazz 1 and José Valentino.
Wooden is an active performer across multiple genres, collaborating with artists such as Edem Soul Music, Tylynn, fusion band Paper Canaries, and Marcey Yates. He is also a core member of Omaha Street Percussion and leads FISSION, a fusion ensemble that blends jazz, rock, and electronic elements. His extensive performance résumé includes work with local and regional acts such as The Toast Band, Patrick Lentz Entertainment, and the Marcus Lewis Big Band, as well as the acclaimed project "Brass and Boujee". His versatility has also led him to perform with the Omaha Symphony, showcasing his ability to navigate both classical and contemporary settings.
Beyond live performance, Wooden has contributed to numerous recording projects, lending his talents to several albums over the years. He also operates a private drum set studio, where he teaches, records, writes, and produces, providing students with a comprehensive musical education. Expanding his creative horizons, he recently debuted an electronic duo project in January 2025, further solidifying his reputation as a forward-thinking artist. At the heart of Wooden’s artistry and career is his faith and devotion to God, which serve as his guiding force in both music and life. His family remains his foundation, providing unwavering support and inspiration as he continues to grow as a musician, educator, and individual. Whether on stage, in the studio, or in the classroom, Kendall Wooden strives to uplift others through his music, blending technical mastery with heartfelt expression and an unwavering commitment to his faith and family.