Where Are They Now? Part 2

It's hard to believe it, but DSM will be celebrating 20 years in 2012. Over that time we have worked with literally thousands of students from all over the DFW metroplex.  Many have become friends and some even consider us part of their extended families. In recent years we began seeing sons and daughters of former students which means - we're getting really old! It has been an incredible journey.

As we embark on a new 'global' phase of the school with MusickEd.com and Discover, Learn, and Play, we thought we'd take a look back and catch up with a few students to see what they were up to and ask what they remember about their time at DSM.  

Nicholas Sanchez studied both guitar and piano as a teenager at DSM. Although he moved away from Dallas, we have remained in touch over the years.  Now he is grown and has his own wonderful family.  Thanks for sharing your story Nico!

Is there anything in particular that you remember about DSM? Any specific event, or occurrence? 

I remember DSM in two ways - once during grade and high-school, and again after college.  Both times for me it was a wonderful escape - a different type of focus and creativity where I could put aside school and/or work, and spend time focused on learning the instrument.  

I was probably one of DSM's most unprepared or unpracticed students, but I sincerely valued the times where most of my musical learning was packed into my weekly lessons with really smart, interesting, and fun teachers that could work with my "loose" goals.  

One year, I even encouraged my future wife to take lessons there so she could focus on a violin piece she was learning.  It was really fun to hear and see her progress and participate with DSM.

Tell us what you're doing now and what your plans are for the next year or so. 
I am living in Sacramento with my wife Stephany and my brand new son, Gabriel!  I work for a software company but my passions are my brand new little family, cooking, and of course, listening and playing music.  It is my goal that Gabriel grow up with music in his blood and that instruments become his toys of choice. 

Is music part of your everyday life?

I play the piano and guitar a little less than before, but this will certainly be picking up again as it is something I want my son to grow up around.  Since moving to California, my wife and I became part of a small ensemble called "Delirium Tremens"... yup, medical people! We jam every once in a while and we have played the UC Davis Internal Medicine graduation for the last two years, and we're expected to play again this year.  Last year I was vocals and guitar, yikes!
 
Music is a major part of my life especially via my family on my mom's side, and on my wife's side.  We want to make sure this is a central theme for our young family as well.  I used to want to record music, but then, for me, it got in the way of just playing.

Thanks Nicholas and best to you and your new family! Be sure to stop in and say hello if you get back to Dallas - we'd love to see you.