Adam Cowger is an Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Percussion Studies at Joliet Junior College. His duties include applied percussion, percussion ensemble, steel band, music literature, American music and world music courses. Adam is the founding director of the JJC Steelband, which began in the spring of 2021.

Prior to moving into full-time college teaching, Adam operated a successful private lessons studio of as many as 40 middle and high school percussionists. Additionally, Mr. Cowger has worked with several high school marching percussion sections including the Lincoln-Way and Lockport school districts.

As a versatile performer, Adam maintains an active schedule with The Chicago Experience, the JJC Faculty Jazz Quintet and numerous professional ensembles in the Chicagoland area. Adam has performed at such prestigious events as the Percussive Arts Society International Convention and Montreux Jazz Festival on multiple occasions. He can be heard drumming on Live, a recent album from The Chicago Experience.

Adam holds a master’s degree from Northern Illinois University and a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Dakota, both in percussion performance. His principal teachers include Dr. Cliff Alexis, Dr. Greg Beyer, Michael Blake, Robert Chappell, Rich Holly, Liam Teague and Rodrigo Villanueva. Adam is proud to endorse Innovative Percussion and Prologix Percussion.