Milestones

My road in life has been direct.
Graduated from CSUF with a B.A. in Instrumental Music Education
Pursued a teaching credential in music
Gained student teaching experience at Yorba Linda High School and Bernardo Yorba Middle School
Became a teacher at Raymond Elementary School
Taught at Canyon Springs High School and John F. Kennedy High School
Was awarded the Director of Instrumental Music position at Valley View High School

Education

High School
John F. Kennedy HS
Bachelor
Instrumental Music Education
California State University, Fullerton
Graduate
Teaching Credential in Music
California State University, Fullerton

Career

Director of Instrumental Music

I organize all activities involving music with instruments including: teaching, fundraising, and competitions.

Career Roadmap

Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Music
Education
Teaching / Mentoring

Day to Day

On a typical day, I teach a variety of music classes in addition to planning for competitions and organizing fundraisers. My job requires constant contact with both parents and administrators in order to coordinate the competitions and fundraisers.

Advice for Getting Started

Here's the first step for high school students

I recommend that students interested in a career in music should try to get performance experience.

Recommended Education

My career is related to what I studied. I'd recommend the path I took:

undergrad
Bachelor
Instrumental Music Education
graduate
Graduate
Teaching Credential in Music

Hurdles

The Noise I Shed

From Teachers:

"I was often told that I was not ready to pursue a career in music while in school. Additionally, I was told that I was not talented enough or that I would not make it."

Challenges I Overcame

Criticism

Q&A

Where do you work?

Asked by Anonymous Student

Valley View High School

What were some of the things that you have had to learn when you got the job?

Asked by Anonymous Student

Mr. Gamarra said that he tries to do more than the conventional music teacher. As technology involves, he thinks that it is important to learn how to use music in a studio setting.

Interviewed By

Anonymous Student

Student at CSUF