My name is Kevin Reyes Vega, and I am a CMPI alum and a current DePaul University student. I’m going to be starting my junior year of college this fall, and I honestly can’t believe how fast time has gone by! So far, I have made many beautiful memories, and I’ve met many wonderful people who I know will stick around in my life for a long time. That’s the beauty of college. And of course, there’s been moments when I’m up at 3am studying for an exam wanting to rip my entire scalp off or begging for 15 more minutes of sleep when waking up for my 8am classes every day. But again, it’s ALL part of the beauty of college!
Being in an environment like the DePaul School of Music has really made me a well-rounded musician. Being a Music Education major, it has taught me to not only be proficient as a musician but also skills to change the lives of younger, uprising musicians in the school system.
Besides the education I am receiving, there is something else that inspires me, and that is the drive that I have in me to change the lives of younger musicians. As a teacher, instructor, or mentor, we hold the power to change the lives of younger students. Growing up as a kid, I know how it feels to have the aspiration of becoming a musician and not having the correct resources, or sometimes not having the resources to have a private instructor. In the process of becoming an educator, I want to give students what I couldn’t have as a child. Making sure that a student has all the necessary tools to succeed in the world of a musician is vital, and it’s something I plan to help in as long as it’s in my power.
CMPI opened doors to many different opportunities for me, and they continue to open doors even as an alum and college student. I have to say that being in CMPI was one of the best decisions I have made. Being in the program provided me with the correct guidance, the correct support, and was always there for me whenever any issues came up. The people here really care about one’s success in music, and it’s incredible to have a program like this in the city of Chicago. Many people dream of a program like this, and we should be absolutely grateful to have the program here in Chicago.
Top tip: If there’s a masterclass or session that you aren’t required to attend, try and attend if you can, trust me, you’ll thank me later.
Images
Kevin’s headshot