WT Band Student Spotlight: Chris Perez
Name: Chris Perez
Years in Band: 2019-2024
Graduation & Degrees:
(Spring 2024 Expected)
Music - E.C.-12 Certification - Instrumental Emphasis, B.M.
Current Residence & Activities: I currently reside in Midland, TX, where I have been completing my student teaching as part of a new program with ECISD. Over the past year, I have had the privilege of working alongside Mr. Jeff Whitaker at Permian High School and Mr. Jordan Freeman at Nimitz Middle School. This experience has been invaluable, as it has provided me with a year's worth of teaching experience before officially starting my career.
In addition to that, I am actively involved with Drum Corps, serving on the administrative team for the Blue Knights from Denver, CO, and as part of the visual staff for Arsenal from El Paso, TX.”
Instrument: Tuba and my secondary instruments are Euphonium, Trombone, and Clarinet.
Ensembles:
- WT Symphonic Band
- WT Concert Band
- WT Brass Choir
- The Sound of West Texas
- Tuba-Euphonium Ensemble
Favorite Memories: One of my favorite band memories is performing at CBDNA with the Symphonic Band in 2023. It was an unforgettable experience playing alongside talented musicians and touring the DFW area to perform for schools. Additionally, traveling to Georgia and meeting composers such as John Mackey, Michael Daugherty, and Anthony Barfield and watching ensembles from across the country added to the excitement of the event.”
Significant Lesson Learned: During my time as an undergraduate at WT, I have learned many valuable lessons and insights in musicianship, education, and life, for which I am grateful to professors such as Dr. Jeremy Lewis, Dr. Russ Teweleit, and Mr. Don Lefevre. As I embark on my student teaching journey, I continue to refine my teaching skills and leadership under the guidance of Mr. Jeff Whitaker and Mr. Jordan Freeman.
Favorite Musical Memories: Having guests come to the Tuba-Euph studio and hosting clinics and private lessons such as Dr. Kevin Wass from Texas Tech, Daniel Perantoni from Indiana University, Dr. Adam Frey from University of North Georgia and Emory University and Patricio Cosentino.
Why did you come to WT: Band Camp 2018 was the reason I attended WT.
Advice for Current WT Students:
- Get involved with the school of music in any way.
- Take hold and cherish every moment.
- Trust your professors and mentors.
Goals after WT: I aspire to become a band director at either a middle school or high school level. My goal is to continually refine my skills as both an educator and musician, striving to offer students the highest quality music education possible. I am dedicated to creating a supportive and enriching learning environment where students can develop their musical talents to their fullest potential.