Joseph North

Joe North is a proud Dutchess County native who has been teaching and performing music in the Hudson Valley since 2013. In addition to teaching at Vassar, he serves as the Jazz Ensemble Director and Woodwind Instructor at Dutchess Community College, and is the Director of Bands and Department Chair at Poughkeepsie High School. He has led numerous Honor Bands across New York State, including both concert bands and jazz ensembles.

In addition to his academic roles, Joe is active in the local arts scene. He leads The True North Jazz Project, co-founded The Bottoms Up Band, and is a member of the New York City-based jam band Skydaddy. His performances span various styles and locations, from Burlington, VT, to Austin, TX, and he has shared the stage with notable artists like Pee Wee Ellis, Bernie Williams, Professor Louie, and Joe Locke.

Before his professional career in education and performance, he received his Bachelor's Degree in Music Education from SUNY Fredonia and his Master's of Music in Jazz Studies from The University of the Arts in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.