Jake Svay

Jake Svay grew up in Catawba, North Carolina as the son of the lead singer in an 80s rock & roll hair band. But Jake’s musical journey took a slightly different path. He’s served as music director at several area churches and currently serves as director of handbells at his alma mater, Manchester University. In addition to earning his Bachelor of Science degree in General Music with a cognate in Conducting, Jake also earned his certification in piano tuning and repair from the Piano Technician Academy.

Jake feels enraptured by the music of Vivaldi and Hans Zimmer, two artists he says can wordlessly convey deep emotion and meaning that’s understandable by anyone from any background. He particularly enjoys the feeling of “frisson,” or that goosebump phenomenon when a musical moment resonates within his entire body. In his free time, Jake enjoys cooking, photography, and learning Japanese. Soon, audiences can see him play a role in the new Fort Wayne opera company, “Opera Today!”