joncruzmusic

Jonathan Cruz is a dedicated music teacher, and freelance woodwind doubler in the Southern California area. He began his musical exploration at the age of 8 with piano and transitioned to clarinet at age 12, and saxophone and flute the following year. After 11 years of successful teaching and a lifetime of musical training, he believes ANYONE, can play music. 

A graduate of California State University, Northridge, Jonathan studied with Doug Masek, and Jerry Luedders. During his studies at CSU Northridge, he was principal saxophonist of the CSUN Wind Ensemble, and lead alto saxophonist for both Jazz A and Jazz B bands. Jonathan is currently pursuing his teaching credential in music at CSUN, and is currently the resident flutist at the First Korean United Mission Church in Arleta, CA. 

Education:

• Teaching Credential CSU – Northridge (in – progress)
• M.M. CSU – Northridge (2008)
• B.M. CSU – Northridge (2005)
• H.S. Diploma - Santa Susana High School Simi Valley (2001) 

Notable performances

• 2011 August – ICA Clarinetfest Wind Ensemble at Valley Performing Arts Center at CSUN 
• 2011 July – RecordingHacks.com $60,000 Ribbon Microphone Shootout
• 2011 Feb – Valley Performing Arts Center at CSUN with Betty Buckley and Marvin Hamlisch
• 2008 Mar – CSU Northridge Wind Ensemble – Disney Hall: Sounds About Town Series
• 2007 CSU Northridge Wind Ensemble – SCSBOA Fall conference: The Wind Band Music of Frank Ticheli
• 2005 Apr – CSU Northridge Jazz ‘A’ Band – Reno Jazz Festival 1st place 4 year college band
• 2001 Co-principal saxophonist Ventura County  High School Honor Band
• 2000 Principal saxophonist Ventura County  High School Honor Band

Teachers

• Mom and Dad
• Gary Herbig
• Scheila Gonzalez
• Douglas Masek
• Jerry Luedders