Nickolas Ortiz
SAXOPHONE (ALTO & TENOR), FLUTE, & CLARINET
Discover the melodious journey of Nickolas Ortiz, a saxophone virtuoso whose musical path is as inspiring as it is impressive. A proud alumnus of California State University, Dominguez Hills, Nickolas graduated with a shining degree in Music Education, a testament to his dedication and passion for music.
From the tender age of his high school years, Nickolas’s saxophone skills were undeniable. His talent caught the attention of Keisha Potter, a distinguished figure from the Fernando Pullum Community Arts Center, during a performance that could only be described as electrifying. This encounter led to an invitation to join the elite Fernando Pullum’s Senior Jazz Orchestra, where Nickolas honed his craft among the elite of the music world.
Nickolas’s academic journey at CSUDH was a dual exploration of the vibrant realms of Classical music, under the guidance of the accomplished Dr. Chika Inoue, and the soul-stirring world of Jazz, mentored by the renowned Dr. Teodross Avery. It was in the jazz ensemble where Nickolas found his true calling, deeply influenced by Dr. Avery’s mentorship.
Beyond his musical talents, Nickolas Ortiz stands as a pillar of leadership and inspiration. He is passionately committed to mentoring the next generation of musicians, aiming to nurture future legends like Mozart and Coltrane. Join Nickolas on a journey not just of musical excellence, but of discovery, inspiration, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. With Nickolas, music transcends notes and scales; it’s about embarking on an extraordinary journey towards the pinnacle of musical artistry.
Hannah Stevens
SAXOPHONE (ALTO AND TENOR), FLUTE, & CLARINET
Introducing Hannah Stevens, the Flute Virtuoso from San Diego!
Hailing from the vibrant shores of San Diego, Hannah Stevens emerges as a symphonic powerhouse in the world of woodwinds. Her journey with music, particularly the flute, spans over a decade of captivating performances, establishing her as a musical force to be reckoned with.
Currently sprinting towards the finish line at CSU Long Beach, Hannah is on the cusp of securing her Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education, a milestone she anticipates reaching by 2024. However, her musical expertise doesn’t end with the flute. Hannah’s versatility shines through her proficiency in playing the clarinet, saxophone, french horn, and cello. Among these, it is the harmonious trio of the flute, saxophone, and clarinet that truly captures the essence of her artistry.
Hannah’s passion extends beyond performance; she is deeply committed to nurturing budding musicians. Her teaching philosophy is renowned for its ability to cater to a broad spectrum of students, from novices absorbing their first melodies to experts honing their craft for the spotlight. Hannah’s tailored approach to music education has earned her legendary status among her students.
Aspiring to inspire the next generation of musical talent, Hannah sets her sights on becoming a middle school band director, where she can play a pivotal role in shaping the futures of aspiring young musicians. Her own achievements? Modestly noted, they include performances at prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall and Copley Hall, as well as a remarkable appearance at the 2023 National Flute Association Convention. Hannah Stevens is not just a musician; she’s a beacon of musical excellence and inspiration, ready to guide and uplift the future stars of the musical world.
Gary Gould
SAXOPHONE (ALTO & TENOR), FLUTE, & CLARINET, & COMPOSITION
Gary Gould is not just a multi-woodwindist with a passion for music; he is a dedicated teacher committed to making music learning enjoyable and engaging for every student. With a Master’s degree in Music and a rich performing career that spans the United States, Western Europe, Japan, and beyond, Gary brings a world of experience to his teaching. He has graced stages on cruise ships heading to Mexico, Alaska, and the Caribbean Islands and has shared his talents with audiences through educational presentations on various music topics.
Born in the bustling city of Detroit, Michigan, and currently residing in sunny Scottsdale, Arizona, Gary’s musical journey began with the drums in elementary school. However, it was the captivating sound of the saxophone, played by his band director, that truly won his heart. This newfound love led him to master not just the saxophone but also the clarinet, flute, and various other woodwind instruments, earning him prestigious awards like the Louis Armstrong Jazz Award during his high school years.
Gary’s academic and musical prowess continued to shine at California State University, Fullerton, where he was celebrated as the Most Outstanding Jazz Musician in his final year. His victory in a significant saxophone contest, held by a Los Angeles radio station, marked the beginning of an illustrious music career, backed by some of the most renowned entertainment agencies in LA.
With over 15 years of teaching experience, including leading bands and speaking at educational conferences, Gary is committed to sharing his vast knowledge and enthusiasm for music. He has worked with students at prestigious institutions such as the Orange County School of the Arts, Irvine Valley College, and Cal State Fullerton, influencing countless musical journeys.
Gary’s teaching philosophy centers on innovation, tailored approaches, and the cultivation of proper habits to achieve musical success. Whether his students aspire to professional musicianship or simply enjoy playing music, he provides a supportive environment that fosters personal growth. His expertise spans a remarkable range of musical styles and instruments, enriching his teaching with a diverse and global perspective.
Gary Gould’s biography is a testament to a lifetime dedicated to music—performing, teaching, and continually exploring the vast world of musical expression.
Daniel Torrez
SAXOPHONE (ALTO & TENOR), FLUTE, & CLARINET
Meet Daniel Torrez, a dedicated musician and educator with a deep-seated passion for music that sparked in middle school. Over the past 7 years, Daniel has honed his skills on the saxophone, enriched by 3 years of valuable teaching experience and a diverse array of performance opportunities.
Driven by a belief in the transformative power of music education, Daniel is committed to positively influencing his students’ musical journeys. He supports students with varying aspirations, from those aiming for virtuosity to those exploring their musical talents, guiding them towards achieving their individual goals.
As an educator, Daniel values thorough explanations and ensures that every question is addressed. He takes time to understand each student’s unique learning style, tailoring his teaching methods to meet their specific needs, and creating an environment where progress is a constant.
Pursuing a degree in music education at CSUDH, Daniel has received exceptional guidance from esteemed musicians. His studies include classical music under Dr. Chika Inoue and contemporary jazz with Dr. Teodross Avery. Besides his proficiency in saxophone, Daniel is skilled in clarinet, flute, and piano. His musical influences encompass jazz, soul, R&B, and reggae, adding a vibrant diversity to his teaching approach. Outside the realm of music, Daniel enjoys cooking and baking, embracing these activities in his leisure time.
