ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

James Segura

Class of 2019, B.M. Music Education Music Teacher, Locke Hill Elementary School

What made you decide to pursue your bachelor’s degree at UTSA and what compelled you to land on Music Education?

“I grew up in San Antonio and always lived just a few minutes away from campus. When it came time to look into colleges, UTSA was the only place that made sense. Choir was my greatest joy in high school, and when I auditioned at UTSA, I truly felt that it was where my dreams would best become a reality. The concert choir visited my campus senior year, and John Silantien singled me out and congratulated me on my success in the All-State audition process. By approaching me and commending me on my efforts, I felt so special.”

What are some of your favorite memories from your undergraduate years?

“I really enjoyed performing with UTSA Lyric Theater. Much of the magic of Fine Arts in high school was being a part of like-minded musicians within a community. Performing at UTSA helped keep my fire alive when my classes were overwhelming I especially remember adapting Into The Woods, in which I played the Wolf, to work in our small recital hall. Though the venue was unique, the show was so memorable.”

Were there any significant moments or people at UTSA who impacted your life’s trajectory?

“I truly loved Dr. Brill’s class, Music in Civilization. I have never seen a teacher so passionate about their area of expertise. I spent so much time fearing that class after hearing stories about its difficulty, but I ended up enjoying it more than any other. I learned how to study in this class, and my hard work really paid off. Dr. Brill was so willing to answer questions and did anything he could to ensure we were all successful. He’s like a walking encyclopedia.

Dr. Dill did an excellent job preparing us for the real, authentic world of education. She was able to draw on her own experiences and always kept it real.”

What at Locke Hill Elementary?

“I began teaching a few months before COVID hit, so my first year and a half of teaching were unique, to say the least. I knew I wanted to be in Elementary Music ultimately, so I waited patiently (sort of) until I could find a gig in the same district I grew up in. The relationships I built throughout my time at UTSA definitely helped during my interview process. I always felt that if the interviewers talked to Dr. Dill or Dr. Mabry, I would be a shoo-in for the position. I felt like they understood me well and would love to vouch for me.”

What is your favorite part about the job?

“Plain and simple: the musicians. Our position is unique because teaching the content that you’re passionate about makes it a special experience going to work every day. But all of that aside, kids need to know that they are safe and loved. By showing that to the students, you get so much in return. There is truly nothing like a child walking into your room excited to be there.”

Looking back at the recent video feature that you’re in on NISD’s site, the energy that you give to your kids is incredible. Where do you find the motivation or ability to keep this up in the classroom daily?

“Honestly, I don’t always understand where my energy comes from. I have always been very energetic, and if you asked my elementary school teachers, hyper would probably be a better word. Kids are like sponges. If they come into your room and you seem bored or unexcited, they’ll become the exact same way. If I want them to be motivated to learn, I have to show them that I am completely thrilled that they are in my room with me. I have to show them why I love solfege or instrument families through my words, thoughtful planning, and actions. In a way, teaching is like performing. My experience as a performer growing up certainly helps when needing to energize a group of 5-year-olds. As an extension of that, I make sure to prioritize my family and mental health. I love to run, read, cook, care for plants, and spend time with my loved ones. If I didn’t take care of myself, I would never be able to do this job.”

Is there any advice you’d offer to junior and senior Music Ed majors looking ahead to graduation?

“I think it’s essential that upcoming graduates kindle their fire at all costs. The idea of running your own choir, band, or orchestra program is a great one, but it’s a battle and learning experience through and through. Don’t forget why you love music, ever. Be humble and open to advice but stand firm in your skills as an educator and musician that have been sharpening since first fell lunch duty ,’ remember thrilled to

A quick look at our UTSA Music students and how they achieve Roadrunner excellence.

Tommy Me Class

performed Éduoard Lalo’s Cello Concerto in D minor for the class. Specifically, he presented the first movement, Prelude: Lento – allegro maestro, for the Cuban-American cellist and their audience Dr. Mark Alexander accompanied him on piano.

It was an incredible opportunity for the senior student to meet and learn from the highly acclaimed cellist who has been cited as “one of the most charismatic, innovative, and engaging performers of his generation.” Mesa won the $50,000 1st Prize at the 2016 Sphinx Competition and the Astral Artists 2017 National Auditions. Mesa has performed as a soloist at the Supreme Court of the United States on three occasions and with orchestras such as the Los Angeles Philharmonic, The Cleveland Orchestra, The Philadelphia Orchestra, and others.

Mesa has previously given masterclasses at U.C. Berkeley, Boston Conservatory, Manhattan School of Music, Northwestern University, DePaul University, University of Nevada-Las Vegas, University of Miami, Meadowmount School of Music, and the Walnut Hill School

International cellist Tommy Mesa was hosted by the San Antonio Philharmonic and the First Baptist Church of San Antonio for a masterclass on Saturday, February 18, and two concerts that same weekend.

The masterclass featured senior UTSA cello student Isaiah Valdez Valdez, who studies under Holgen Gjoni at the School of Music,

Valdez is currently in the audition process for Master’s programs around the nation, hoping to eventually “follow in the footsteps of his mentors and plans to continue his studies to eventually become a distinguished Music Educator at the University level. ”