In the Fall of 2015, Roxanne began driving from Prescott, Arizona, where she lives, to study for a Certificate in Electronic Music at the Maricopa Colleges and is simultaneously studying for an Associates Degree at Yavapai College in Prescott. This semester she is working on her fifth Honors course in the Maricopa Colleges and has been accepted into Rio Salado’s Post-Baccalaureate Teaching Program to become certified to teach K-12 music. Once certified and employed, she will work to earn her Master’s in Music Education. Maricopa Community College opportunities have changed her life as she prepares to change the life of others with the gift of music.
Where synthesizer, drums and flute meet
She sings several parts in groups according to whatever is needed (1st Soprano, 2nd Soprano, 1st Alto, 2nd Alto, and Mezzo Soprano), writes in several genres, and records music. Each week she takes private lessons in percussion and violin. Her primary instruments are: synthesizer, drums, and flute. She began violin lessons in 2016 with Dr. Philip Kuhns at Yavapai College, who also provided guidance with her composition and advised her regarding the necessary bowings. The other instruments she plays are: fifes, piccolo, recorder, clarinet, MIDI Wind Controller, rhythm guitar, and piano. This semester at Paradise Valley she is drumming for Jazz Combo. At Yavapai College, she has played percussion for Concert Band, sang a solo in Community Chorale, and sang in Master Chorale. In the Fall of 2018 she plans on continuing with Master Chorale and also playing flute in Symphonic Band.
The versatility of electronic music
Throughout her life Roxanne has volunteered and performed in music. In the Prescott area she sings for the Prescott Pops Chorus, sings and plays instruments for several occasions in the community, churches, and was an Acker Musician last year. Currently she is volunteering with the PUSD middle school orchestras. She has mentored middle school students in churches in voice, vocal ensembles, special music, violin and flute and has taught flute private lessons to middle school students.
The music she loves writing best is all groove-based, due to the versatility of electronic music. At Paradise Valley, Professor Anthony Obr has been challenging Roxanne to grow in her ability to write music technology papers for her Honors projects. In May of 2018, she will have completed Electronic Music I, II, and III Honors- all by submitting proposals for her Honors contracts.
Building and developing skills as a composer
The Honors Achievement Award Program has enhanced Roxanne’s study of music as she prepares for the future. All of her instructors have been excellent and have encouraged her by their example- both as instructors and contributors to the community. Winning WOA’s competition motivates her to continue to build and develop more skills as a composer.
