Meet Pasadena High School’s New Band Director, Miguel Alvarez-Diaz

Mr. Miguel Alvarez-Diaz is a talented musician who is excited to lead The Pride of Pasadena Marching Band and Jazz Ensemble!

Miguel Alvarez-Diaz began his musical journey in middle school — being awarded with superior ratings in solo competitions in the SCSBOA. Due to a shortage of trombonists at his high school, he volunteered to learn the instrument and it opened new doors for Alvarez-Diaz. As a trombonist, he was privileged to perform in the Rose Parade twice, in the Tournament of Roses Honor Band. He also performed in the Pomona Concert Band, Purpose Church Orchestra, as well as gigged around Southern California. In 2017, and was given the opportunity to march in the London New Years Day parade as Drum Major. He attended Azusa Pacific University, where he earned his Bachelor’s of Music in Music Education. While attending APU, he performed in numerous ensembles, such as: Wind Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Workshop, Jazz Combos, Men’s Chorale, Studio Orchestra, and Symphonic Band. In partnership with the Scholarship Undergraduate Research Experience, Mr. Alvarez-Diaz studied the beneficial impacts of music to students with special needs – specifically with speech development barriers – and presented my findings at the California Music Education Association Conference.

As an instrumental music educator, he intends to achieve three goals: foster artistry in musical performance and practice, building community both in and out of the classroom, and shape students to be developing professionals. Many activities accomplish these standards, however, music is one of the few activities that provides the opportunity to achieve all three. Under his guidance, Mr Alvarez-Diaz will provide spaces for practice on musical performance, attentive rehearsals that stimulate artistry, academic encouragement, meaningful performances, and cultivate leaders to take on the workforce. Ultimately, this program is an establishment where students take the initiative for their craft and pursue their musical goals.

Mr. Diaz look forward to meeting each and everyone of the PHS staff and students alike and create music!

Pasadena High School, 2925 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., Pasadena, (626) 396-5880 or visit www.pusd.us/phs.