Mr. Jim Territo is an accomplished musician, educator, and composer with a broad range of experience in both the classroom and the performing arts. He studied Education and Composition at the University of Michigan School of Music, earning his Bachelor of Music (BMus) in 2001 and his Master of Music (MMus) in 2008. During his time at the University of Michigan, Jim honed his skills in both music education and composition, which laid the foundation for his diverse and successful career in music and education.
Jim's teaching journey began with student teaching in Saline, Michigan, where he gained valuable experience working with students of various age groups. From 2002 to 2014, he taught at Detroit Country Day School, where he made a significant impact on students by teaching high school, elementary, and jazz band. His work with these groups helped students develop not only their musical skills but also their appreciation for the arts. His experience at Detroit Country Day School helped him build a strong reputation as an inspiring and effective music educator.
In 2014-2015, Jim expanded his career by moving to New York City, where he worked as a composer and theater music director. This period allowed him to immerse himself in the professional music world, where he contributed his talents to various theater productions, further broadening his expertise and creative scope.
From 2016 to 2018, Jim continued to build his teaching portfolio at the Roeper School, where he taught band and general music. In addition to his work at Roeper, Jim was involved in the “Accent Pontiac” program, an El-Sistema-affiliated initiative aimed at providing music education to underserved youth in Pontiac, Michigan. Through this program, Jim worked to cultivate musical talent in young students while also fostering a sense of discipline and community through music.
Beyond his work as an educator, Jim is a highly active freelance composer, arranger, and pianist. He has been composing and arranging music since 1997, and over the years, he has published several works. He maintains an active performance schedule, regularly engaging with both professional and community musicians. Jim’s creativity and passion for music continue to be evident in his ongoing projects, including the development of his third original musical, The Daedalus 2 Mission, which he is currently working on. This project reflects his deep commitment to the craft of musical theater and his desire to continue innovating within the genre.
Jim’s extensive experience in music education, composition, and performance, combined with his dedication to fostering creativity and skill in his students, makes him a dynamic and influential figure in the world of music education.
