From Beethoven’s Symphony No.5 to modern-day Richard Meyer, there is no doubt that playing in an orchestra takes mental strength and hours of practice. Being the heartbeat of the orchestra takes a talented and supportive conductor to lead. One of these individuals is Cole Perez, whom Yorba Linda High School welcomes as the new orchestra teacher.
The clock strikes 5:00 AM on Mr. Perez’s alarm, and he is awake and ready for a busy day. Starting every morning off with a cup of much-needed coffee, he is out the door. Around 7 AM, he arrives at Yorba Linda High School ready to teach a class of 60 students. After an hour of teaching as a student teacher, he stays and spends one to two hours working on homework. 11:30 AM comes around, and he leaves to teach at his second and third high school of the day, alternating between Los Alamitos High School and Tesoro High School. Finally, after instructing, he takes a break for lunch.
While his schedule varies, he returns to Yorba Linda on Monday afternoon to teach for another 3 hours. On Wednesdays, he attends class at California State University, Long Beach to finish his studies. Afterward, he finishes his night off by teaching private students. On weekends, he spends his time playing at musicals and events. Once a week, he also helps out at the Orange County Youth Symphony, helping kids develop their musical skills and grow their love for music.
Mr. Perez (S) is excited to work at YLHS, saying, “I like working here. This is my first time directing a program, and I was very nervous at first because of the class size. 60 kids is a lot to take in, but we are getting work done.” Even though this is his first time teaching a class this size, he has done a wonderful job communicating his expectations and letting the students express their opinions because to him, “[everyone] matters and [has] something to contribute to this group.” Every day at 7:15 AM, Mr. Perez comes in with a positive attitude and a smile, always showing the Mustang Way: respect, responsibility, and integrity. He makes a valiant effort to make sure everyone is heard and playing something they enjoy.
In welcoming Mr. Perez, Yorba Linda High School attained a talented conductor and passionate mentor dedicated to encouraging a love for music, collaboration, and growth among his students.
