08/13/2026
We are very grateful that Jacob Ward has made it to the finals! It's quite the accomplishment and honor. During his time at SPC Creative Arts, he was a joy to teach. He not only learned the material he was taught, but he also implemented it musically into his playing.
Please send your best wishes to this wonderful young musician!
SPC commercial music alumnus Jake Ward is headed to Hollywood to compete in the final round of the 2026 Guitar Center Drum-Off on August 20th at the Fonda Theatre. Ward, a 2023 SPC graduate, earned his spot among just six finalists from across the nation after competing against thousands of drummers.
Ward credits his time at SPC and the mentorship of Creative Arts faculty with helping shape him into the musician and professional he is today.
“The fundamentals of who I am as a musician come from me being at South Plains College,” Ward said. “They taught me how to be a professional and how to really thrive in music.”
Join us in wishing Jake the best of luck as he takes the stage in Hollywood! 🥁🎶
🔗 Read the full story here: https://bit.ly/JakeWard_DrumOff
