Michael A. Espinosa Jr
Chicago,USA
Summary
Dynamic music educator specializing in mariachi, recognized for developing and delivering engaging course materials that inspire and challenge students across all educational levels. Expertise in creating authentic performance opportunities and providing real-world mariachi experiences fosters academic success and personal growth. A strong collaborator, adept at adapting to evolving academic needs while maintaining high educational standards, dedicated to driving team cohesion and cultivating a passion for music among students. This commitment ensures a vibrant and supportive educational experience that resonates with learners.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Adjunct Lecturer - Mariachi Fuego Director
University of Illinois, UIC
08.2017 - Current
- Increased the Mariachi's visibility by participating in local events, representing the ensemble as an ambassador to the community.
- Selected repertoire that showcased the skillset of each musician while also challenging them to improve their individual abilities.
- Supported musician development through ongoing evaluation processes, offering targeted advice on how to enhance skills or overcome challenges.
Music Teacher
Chicago Public Schools
09.2016 - Current
- Teach Band at Beginning level.
- Teach Mariachi Class for Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced levels.
- Organized successful concerts and recitals, showcasing students'' talents and hard work.
- Inventoried, maintained, repaired, and purchased new instruments and gear for department.
- Coordinated dynamic performances at various school and community events, showcasing the talent of each ensemble member.
- Established strong relationships with students, parents, and school administrators to foster a supportive musical community.
- Organized successful fundraising events, growing the budget for purchasing new instruments and equipment.
- Expanded the ensemble's repertoire by researching and selecting diverse pieces that catered to members'' interests and abilities.
Lead Instructor
After School Matters
01.2006 - Current
- Established existing club into an After School Matters Advanced Apprenticeship and Internship during summers.
- Designed program that has thrived for since 2006 and has expanded into two other schools - Curie, Juarez, UNO Garcia High School (discontinued)
- Group has performed in various venues and events across the city.
- Developed positive relationships with students built on trust and respect, encouraging open communication and mutual support within the class community.
Lead Instructor
Chicago Mariachi Project
12.2013 - 09.2024
- Helped Establish First City Wide Student Mariachi Ensemble
- Member of Leadership Committee
- Direct Intermediate Academy Ensemble
- Assist with Advanced and Beginner Ensembles
- Co-Directed and Championed the Advanced Academy Ensemble as the First Chicago Group to Compete at the Mariachi Spectacular (Albuquerque), Securing 1st Place in the High School Division and 2nd Overall - 2016
Teaching Artist
Old Town School of Folk Music
01.2010 - 01.2016
- Residence at Cooper Dual Language Academy
- Assist in Establishing and Teaching Two Mariachi Ensembles
- Group has performed in various venues across the city
Education
Bachelors of Music Education - undefined
VanderCook College of Music
Chicago, IL05.2016
Diploma - undefined
Curie Metropolitan High School
Chicago, IL01.2005
Skills
- Expertise in Mariachi
- Multi-instrumental Performance and Pedagogy with Focus on Strings and Brass
- Multi-Cultural Pedagogy
- Effective Classroom Management
- Student Recruitment and Retention
- Program Evaluation
Timeline
Adjunct Lecturer - Mariachi Fuego Director
University of Illinois, UIC
08.2017 - Current
Music Teacher
Chicago Public Schools
09.2016 - Current
Lead Instructor
Chicago Mariachi Project
12.2013 - 09.2024
Teaching Artist
Old Town School of Folk Music
01.2010 - 01.2016
Lead Instructor
After School Matters
01.2006 - Current
Bachelors of Music Education - undefined
VanderCook College of Music
Diploma - undefined
Curie Metropolitan High School
Professional Development
- Mariachi Spectacular Conference 2014 – 2017
- Chicago Mariachi Project Workshops 2014-2017
- Mariachi Aztlan University of Texas RGV - Festiba 2020
- Cindy Shea – Mariachi Divas Clinics - 2015
- John Nieto and Miguel Guzman Group and Individual Sessions 2014 - 2019
- Vanessa Alonzo and Sebastien De La Cruz – Mariachi Opera clinics 2014 - 2018
- Alex Martinez - Mariachi Tepalcatepec Group and Individual Sessions - 2014 - 2018
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