By Lauren Buelow, student writer, UW-Eau Claire News Bureau
John Raymond
- Golden Valley, Minn.
- Bachelor of music — applied instrumental
- What's next: Graduate school at Purchase College in New York City
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UW-Eau Claire photo by Bill Hoepner |
Even if he never becomes an international superstar, trumpet player John Raymond has found that living his passion every day is enough to satisfy him and even pay the bills.
Raymond knows exactly what it takes to make a living as a musician — something that most people believe is possible only if you make the top 40. Through his experience in the jazz program at UW-Eau Claire, Raymond said, he's learned that hard work, dedication and a well-rounded education will take him where he wants to go.
Raymond credits the unique experiences offered by both UW-Eau Claire and the surrounding community as the foundation of his success.
"The diverse range of opportunities that I have had to do so many different things within music has been extraordinary," Raymond said. "There are so many real-life opportunities that I have gotten a chance to be a part of that have certainly paved the way for my future in music and continue to do so."
The jazz program has taught Raymond the ins and outs of being a professional musician. He now knows where to find gigs, how to get them and how to collaborate with other musicians. He has also learned how to find students and run a private studio.
During his time at UW-Eau Claire, Raymond has performed with several university and professional groups, including UW-Eau Claire's Jazz Ensemble I, the Robert Baca Jazz Orchestra and the Twin Cities Horns, as well as with Minneapolis-based pianist Nachito Herrera. Raymond also manages his own group, the John Raymond Project.
Through all of his accomplishments, Raymond remains humble and said he is grateful for the opportunities he has been given. He has a passion for learning and said he strives each day for personal growth, both as a musician and a person. He encourages future students to do the same:
"It's so easy to let life just slip by and not wake up every single day eager to learn and grow, both in school and in relationships in your life," said Raymond. "There are so many incredible opportunities for you to discover who you are, but they don't come easy. Take the hard road and challenge yourself."
More on John Raymond
Future plans: I will be moving to New York City in the fall of 2009 to pursue a master's degree in jazz studies from Purchase College. While I'm there, I'll get lots of on-the-job training in different musical settings (primarily jazz related), and I'll receive instruction from some of the world's best jazz artists and educators. After I finish the degree in May of 2011, my plans are up in the air. I am definitely considering staying in New York City or possibly moving back to Minneapolis. Either way, I intend to earn my income solely in music, both performing and educating. What that will look like I'm not quite sure, but I do know that whatever I will be doing in music I will enjoy it a ton!
Unique aspects of his UW-Eau Claire experience: When prospective students come visit the music department, I always share with them how I firmly believe that UW-Eau Claire has the most well-rounded and deepest undergraduate education in music out of any other school in the country. When I was applying to colleges, I considered three top-level music conservatories on the East Coast and Eau Claire, and having seen those schools and been around musical environments in many places, I am always so grateful to be in an environment that has the level of intensity, passion, performance and outreach that UW-Eau Claire has. What makes UW-Eau Claire so special is the motivating and inspiring attitude that both students and professors share. This lends itself to such a genuine atmosphere amongst teachers and students, and the level of performance automatically rises with such an incredible chemistry. I still firmly believe that there is no other music school in the country that will give you the education UW-Eau Claire's music department offers.
What he liked most about his UW-Eau Claire experience: The unique musical opportunities in and around campus.
Highlights of his UW-Eau Claire experience and his proudest accomplishments while he was here:
- The Eau Claire Jazz Festival — there's nothing like it anywhere.
- Jazz gigs at the Shanghai Bistro — amazing food, amazing music with all your greatest friends.
- Growing in my faith through on-campus Christian organizations as well as great, challenging friendships (particularly Student Impact/Campus Crusade for Christ).
- The beautiful weather!
- Five years of hard work put in that have led me to receive a spot pursuing a master's degree in music.
Advice for incoming students: College is what you make of it. Don't be passive in how you take advantage of your time in college. Don't settle for complacency or laziness, but rather make the most of EVERY single day you have on campus. College has been incredible for me and it can be for you too if you approach it wisely and with a passion to learn and grow. Enjoy!
Learn about other featured May 2009 graduates
