Spotlight Series: Naomi Vasquez

From a very young age, Naomi Vasquez was exposed to the world of music. Her father plays several instruments, and Naomi says the musical influence from her father has played a role in her development, not only as a musician but as a person.

This spring, Naomi, a second-year music student at Palo Alto College, was selected as a trombone player for the Texas Community College Band Directors Association (TCCBDA) All-State Jazz Orchestra. College students from across the state came together in February for three days of rehearsal, culminating with a performance at the annual Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) convention on Saturday, February 16.

Naomi credits her father's mentorship for getting where she is today and having the confidence to pursue a career in music.

"He's the one who would teach me certain instruments," said Vasquez. "Basically, he was the foundation of where I am right now."

Her selection for the TCCBDA All-State Jazz Orchestra is an enormous accomplishment for Vasquez. Although originally apprehensive about auditioning, she was ecstatic to hear the news.

"I was flabbergasted," said Vasquez. "[My professor] told me during my first class. He was like, 'Naomi Vasquez,' and I thought I was in trouble because he said my full name. He said I made it. I didn't know what to say. I was just so speechless."

Vasquez was the only student representing Palo Alto College in the TCCBDA All-State Jazz Orchestra this academic school year. She was proud to be given the opportunity to showcase her talent with some of the best in the state.

"When [my professor] said that I had made it, I didn't know what to say," said Vasquez. "That was like the best day of my life."

This selection gives Vasquez a glimpse into what she can accomplish as she pursues a career in music. To this day, she is still driven by her father's influence and hopes she can bring him along for the ride.

"He didn't go to college, but he wants to travel also by playing music," said Vasquez. "Hopefully if I can accomplish that, I can take him with me somewhere."

Vasquez hopes that her accomplishments will be an example to her younger brothers that hard work and dedication can bring about great accomplishments. Although she is proud of this achievement, she feels the best is yet to come.

"I would like to perform with the symphony, the orchestra in San Antonio, or just travel playing music," said Vasquez. "I hope I can do that one day."