Jerry Pannone

Jerry Pannone is a musician, educator, filmmaker, and author whose work is inspired by one enduring question:

Who are we, really?

For more than four decades, he has explored this question through music, science, psychology, philosophy, and, ultimately, spirituality. His books, films, and educational work invite readers and viewers to reflect on the deeper connections that unite us and on how a broader understanding of ourselves can lead to greater compassion, purpose, and peace.

Jerry received his teaching credential and Master's degree in Music from San Francisco State University and also studied North Indian music at the Ali Akbar Khan College of Music. Throughout his career he has composed two ballets, two choral works, and numerous compositions for jazz bands and chamber ensembles while continuing to perform professionally.

He has taught students from elementary school through high school in San Mateo, Oakland, and San Francisco, California. For more than thirty years he taught music, humanities, and critical thinking at the San Francisco School of the Arts (now the Ruth Asawa School of the Arts). He also founded an ethics program affiliated with the National High School Ethics Bowl and partnered graduate students from San Francisco State University's Philosophy Department with local high school students.

His contributions to music education have been recognized with numerous honors, including the San Francisco Symphony's Agnes Albert Award for Excellence in Music Education, the California State Senate District 8 Teacher of the Year Award, and the California Music Educators Association's Bay Area Lifetime Achievement Award.

Today, Jerry continues to write books, create educational films, and explore the connections between science, music, and spirituality in the hope of encouraging thoughtful inquiry, deeper understanding, and a greater appreciation of our shared humanity.