Makena Mailer

Makena Mailer is currently pursuing his Master's Degree in Percussion Performance and Literature at the Eastman School of Music, where he serves as a Graduate Assistant under Professor Michael Burritt. He earned his Bachelor of Music in Performance and Music Education, graduating magna cum laude from East Texas A&M University, where he studied with Dr. Brian Zator.

Makena has performed with the Santa Clara Vanguard Drum and Bugle Corps, serving as front ensemble section leader and helping the ensemble earn the 2024 Fred Sanford Award for Best Percussion, as well as with the Troopers Drum and Bugle Corps. While at East Texas A&M University, the percussion ensemble was selected as a winner of the International Percussion Ensemble Competition and performed at the Percussive Arts Society International Convention. As an educator, he has taught at several successful Texas programs including Vandegrift High School, Dripping Springs High School, and Lake Highlands High School, among others. He is also an active clinician, adjudicator, and private lesson instructor, working with students across the country to further their musical growth.