Keith Cozart Steele, M.A.

About me

Keith Cozart Steele is Professor of Practice in Music and Director of Percussion at Earlham College,
where he teaches percussion studies, world music, and popular music courses. An accomplished
educator, performer, and cultural advocate, Keith brings a broad interdisciplinary perspective to
music education, drawing upon extensive experience in performance, teaching, and international
study.

Keith has studied extensively in Brazil and Guinea, West Africa, immersing himself in the musical
traditions, performance practices, and cultural contexts that have shaped percussion music around
the world. These experiences inform his teaching and scholarship, enabling students to explore music
as both an artistic discipline and a powerful tool for cultural understanding and global engagement.

As Director of Percussion, Keith teaches applied percussion, directs percussion ensembles, and
mentors students in developing technical proficiency, artistic expression, and creative confidence. His
teaching emphasizes performance excellence, experiential learning, and the exploration of diverse
musical traditions.

In addition to percussion studies, Keith teaches lecture courses that examine music through
historical, cultural, and global perspectives. His courses include History of Rock Music, American
Popular Music, and Musics of the World, engaging students in the study of music’s role in shaping
society, identity, and culture. Through these courses, students develop critical listening skills and a
deeper understanding of the historical, social, and artistic forces that influence musical expression.

Committed to the liberal arts mission of Earlham College, Keith encourages students to view music as
a means of creativity, scholarship, and meaningful human connection. His teaching inspires students
to become thoughtful musicians, informed listeners, and engaged global citizens.

Education

• M.A., Ball State University
• B.A., University of Northern Colorado
• Certificate in Online Teaching, Indiana University East

Professional memberships

• Percussive Arts Society
• Indiana State Music Association

Selected artistic projects

• Pavel and Direct Contact
• JazzCussion
• West African Drum and Dance with M’Bemba Bangoura
• The Doug Hart Band

Courses taught

• History of Rock Music
• Percussion Ensembles — Hand Drum Ensemble and Earlham Rhythm Project
• American Popular Music
• Musics of the World
• Applied Percussion

Areas of expertise

• Percussion performance and pedagogy
• Community Arts Engagement
• West African Djembe
• Drum Circle Facilitation
• Popular Music Studies
• Music Education and Leadership

Teaching philosophy