About Sara Hixenbaugh
Born in Kumanovo, Macedonia, Sara grew up in a musical family and began playing drums at just four years old. Her early passion led her to classical percussion studies and a full scholarship to Interlochen Arts Academy. Sara earned her Bachelor’s in Music with honors from Jacksonville University, and her Master’s from the University of Akron, where she was a
Graduate Teaching Assistant.
She joined Ensemble Performing Arts in 2021 and currently serves as Regional Manager for the Midwest & South regions, bringing her deep expertise and leadership to support school operations and student success. She has performed across Europe and the U.S., and is a performance-focused marimbist, earning top awards in international percussion competitions in Italy, France, Slovenia, Bulgaria,
and beyond.
Fluent in multiple languages and a proud mother, Sara finds joy in nurturing not only her own child but the growth and success of everyone she works with. When she’s not working, you can find her outdoors planting flowers, enjoying nature, or out on the golf course.