By: MATTIE SPINK
Staff Writer
Such as last year, El Diamante is sporting many new teachers this upcoming year. However, some of the rookies from last year have yet to be formally introduced to the campus. Ricky Avila, the newest director of El Diamante’s orchestra groups, is one of these forgotten new teachers from our previous year.
Mr. Avila, previously a private tutor for those looking to study the art of violin, joined El Diamante’s staff early in the year for our 2021-2022 school year. Avila claims that he has been teaching music for the last 7 years, this current year being his second year teaching in public school. In total, Mr. Avila has been playing violin for 16 years, though he has only been playing “with intent” for the last 8 years. Demonstrating his newfound dedication to music, Avila earned his Master’s Degree in music performance this past year at Fresno State University.
When asked about what inspired Avila to pursue teaching music, he insists his students are what makes it worthwhile. In high school, Mr. Avila shared that his orchestra teacher made him want to quit playing due to his teacher’s attitude and general treatment of students. He continued to play despite this and strives to encourage students to keep playing as well. He wants his students to know that “it’s okay if [they’re] not perfect,” and that they are valid musicians either way.
Before ending our interview together, Mr. Avila wanted to make a point to thank all the Miners on campus for accepting him as he is– and for giving him a warm welcome to his first year teaching in public school. Even though last year was a little “rough around the edges,” Avila is excited to have a productive year that’s even bigger and better than it was before.
