It goes by many nicknames: “Music 600”, “Orchestra”, or “some music club.” But they all reference the same classroom, Room 600, where the head of Marshall Music, Alexander Ramirez,– teaches 5 out of the 9 music classes offered here at Marshall. As May rears its head, the music program will have multiple events spanning the course of the month, including the grand performance held at the Greek: Bach, Rock, and Shakespeare. I interviewed Mr. Ramirez as I asked some questions about his teaching, program, and the future.
Q: How long have you been teaching for? How long do you plan to keep on teaching?
Ramirez: I have been teaching for 21 years. I believe that teaching and learning are lifelong endeavors so I plan to keep doing both for a while!
Q: Was teaching music your first choice in regards to your music career? If so, what made you choose it? If not, why the change?
Ramirez: After graduating from university I was playing professionally all over town. After some time I grew tired of traveling all the time from gig to gig. Around that time I discovered teaching. I realized that teaching would enable me to give back to the community and have a meaningful career in music.
Q: Multiple programs and shows are fast approaching–how do you feel about this? Do you think your students are ready for this?
Ramirez: Our Marshall Musicians have had an amazing year. They have been working hard all year performing at concerts and festivals. Our Marshall Orchestra and Jazz Band and Rock Band have all earned Superior and Excellent ratings from our festival appearances. I am very proud of their work this year, and I believe our students are ready for our upcoming shows.
Q: What’s the best part of teaching music here at Marshall?
Ramirez: The students of course! I feel very fortunate to work with our students each day. Our students never cease to amaze me with their talent and their ability to learn.
Q: What’s the worst part? Are there any difficulties when it comes to student learning, scheduling, staff, admin, etc?
Ramirez: As our music program continues to grow and develop, we need support from parents, administrators and the entire community. We need support from our counselors to ensure that students who wish to take music classes are able to do so, we need parents and the community to attend our concerts, and we need support from all stakeholders to help our program to grow and continue to be successful.
Q: Besides the music students learn, why else should a student join Marshall Music and/or Room 600?
Ramirez: Making music is one of the best ways to spend your time. It is good for your brain, your body and your soul. When you join music, you become part of a highly creative and supportive community. If you are interested in music and are thinking about taking up an instrument I encourage you to stop by and visit Room 600.
Q: If your music students were listening/reading your response, what is one thing you would like to close off with? What would you like them, from the bottom of your heart, to know?
Ramirez: Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to be your teacher and for sharing your talent and love of music with me. I hope that you continue to keep music in your lives and keep playing!!