Mr. Briem, my Percussion Director, taught me that music is an extension of personality. If it’s genuine, it’s great. This photo was taken after an awesome jam session with his friend, Mr. Camerdella. I've been fortunate to have many mentors in music who have taught me more than just notes.
Music is what brings harmony to the world. Time and time again, I've come to realize how profoundly music has impacted my life and the lives of those around me. Being a musician and gaining experiences through music has truly changed who I am as a person.
Since I was a little boy, I’ve always been surrounded by music. Growing up in a Dominican and Mexican household, I was exposed to a wide range of sounds—bachata, corridos, merengue, and hip-hop, mostly through my older siblings. I lived in it, listened closely, and never took it for granted. Even early on, my parents saw the impact music had on me.