Ron Sikes

Into the Unknown
11:00 - 11:50 AM • Blue Room

Mr. Sikes began teaching in the Jefferson R-VII School District (Festus, Missouri) in 2000.  His responsibilities include 5th Grade Band, 6th Grade Band, 7th/8th Grade Band, 7th/8th Grade Jazz Band, High School Jazz/Salsa Band, and High School Band. His middle and high school bands consistently achieve superior ratings in all areas. In 2011 & 2015, The Jefferson High School Concert Band was selected to perform at the Missouri Music Educators Association Convention.  In addition to his many teaching responsibilities, Sikes maintains a busy schedule as a clinician, composer, percussionist, drum set artist, frottoirist, and jazz vibraphonist. 

As a composer, Sikes has written music for concert bands, jazz bands, and professional bands.  His compositions have been performed all over the country.  In 2009, Ron authored and self-published the beginning band method book, “Keys to Success.”

As a performer, Ron performs with the Funky Butt Brass Band (drum set), Gumbohead (congas, timbales, frottoir), and Musica SLESA (bongo, guiro). He has performed all over the country and recorded over 20 CD’s with various artists from all genres.

Mr. Sikes earned a Bachelor of Music Education degree in 1999 from University of MO-St. Louis.  Ron has been influenced by some of the finest educators, including Mark Trautwein, Brad Madson, Dr. Claude Baker, Dr. William Richardson, Marvin Sparks, Jeff Hamilton, Sally Herman, and Dennis Reis.  In 2008, Ron Sikes completed his Masters in Educational Administration from Missouri Baptist University.

Ron recently completed a two year term at MMEA Jazz Vice President.  Prior to serving as MMEA Jazz Vice President, Ron has served as President, and High School Jazz Vice-president for East Central 7 district. .  Ron Sikes’ professional affiliations include the MBA, Phi Beta Mu, NAfME, MOJAE, MMEA, and MSTA, and remains active as performer, teacher, and clinician throughout the area.