Dr. Zachary Cooke serves as Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities at King University, where he teaches music theory and conducts the King Chorale. He holds a Doctor of Music Education from Liberty University, where his doctoral thesis, *Servant Leader Choral Conductor: The Effect of Servant Leadership in Community Choirs and Community Partnerships*, examined within community choirs.
Before joining King University, Dr. Cooke held faculty positions at Oklahoma Panhandle State University and Independence Community College, directing both choral and instrumental ensembles. At OPSU, he led the university’s choirs and bands and taught music theory and aural skills. At Independence, he conducted the ICC Chorale and Chamber Singers and taught courses in music theory, aural skills, and music appreciation.
Earlier in his career, Dr. Cooke directed vibrant high school choral programs at Thomas Jefferson and John Marshall High School in Richmond, Virginia. His academic background includes a Master of Music Education with a choral emphasis from Northern State University and a Bachelor of Music Education from Delta State University.
An active church musician, Dr. Cooke has served as Director of Music at Duncan Memorial United Methodist and Beulah United Methodist Church in Richmond, where he led both Chancel and Handbell Choirs. His commitment to musical excellence and community-centered artistry defines his approach as a conductor and educator.
- Doctor of Music Education, Liberty University
- Master of Music Education, Northern State University
- Bachelor of Music Education, Delta State University
- Research Presenter, Oklahoma Music Educators Association Winter Conference (2025) Servant Leader Choral Conductor: The Effect of Servant Leadership in Community Choirs and Community Partnerships