Bronco Spotlight: John Proulx
Master of Arts in Music: Vocal Jazz Performance, 2019
Adjunct Faculty at Cal Poly Pomona and Cal State University Long Beach
At CPP, I direct the vocal jazz ensemble, the soul ensemble, and teach applied commercial piano lessons. At CSULB, I am teaching a jazz piano class.
What is the most rewarding and the most challenging part of your job?
The most rewarding part of the job is seeing the light click when students grasp a concept I am teaching. I also enjoy exposing the students to music they are not familiar with. The most challenging part of the job is jumping into new environments at different schools and needing to learn their procedures quickly.
What activities, resources, or people helped you prepare for your career?
My vocal teacher, Greg Jasperse, really prepared me for the world of vocal jazz education and all that comes with it. My time at WMU singing with Gold Company and directing GC2 gave me a new appreciation for what it takes to make a truly great vocal jazz program.
What advice do you have for students?
My advice is to diversify as much as possible. Learn all you can by getting involved in all that your school has to offer. When applying for teaching work, know that employers are looking at how many skills you can bring to the job. I’d also recommend that undergrads get their Master’s degrees since that is now the minimum requirement for collegiate teaching positions.