Jacob Ruiz is a percussionist and music educator from Midland, Texas. A graduate of Legacy High School, he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Music from the University of Texas Permian Basin, where he studied under distinguished faculty including Dr. Bryan Braue, Dr. Lyndsay Eiben, Dr. Tyson Voigt, Dr. Tim Feerst, and Dr. Andrew Veit. In recognition of his academic and musical achievements, Jacob was inducted into the Lambda Beta chapter of the Pi Kappa Lambda National Music Honor Society in 2023. He is also an active member of the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA).

At UTPB, Jacob was an active member of several ensembles, including the Symphonic Winds, Percussion Ensemble, and the Spirit of the Permian Basin Marching Band. In 2024, he was honored to perform with the CBDNA Southwestern Division Intercollegiate Honor Band. Beyond his collegiate experience, Jacob also performed with the Colts Drum and Bugle Corps and the world-class indoor percussion ensemble, Music City Mystique. These elite programs, combined with his academic training, significantly shaped his musicianship and teaching philosophy.

In 2025, Jacob joined Frenship ISD as the Assistant Band Director and Percussion Specialist at Memorial High School.

Outside of music, Jacob enjoys spending time with family and friends and spending time outdoors. He is excited to begin this new chapter at Memorial High School and is committed to building a culture of excellence that nurtures student growth both musically and personally.