Born in Philadelphia, PA, Jake Kelberman began studying classical violin at age 9, and took an interest in jazz guitar later in high school. He went on to participate in programs such as the University of the Arts Summer Jazz Workshop, The Pennsylvania Governor’s School for the Arts, and the UArts High School All-Star Big Band (formerly the Grammy Band). After graduating high school, he enrolled in the Jazz Studies program at Temple University's Boyer College of Music. He has also studied at the Conservatorium Van Amsterdam, where he studied with Jesse Van Ruller.