DAVE
DIVALENTINO
Area of Study: Music Education
Current City: Horsham, PA
Graduation Date: 2003
Current Occupation: Band Director, North Penn School District
Why did you choose WCU and/or the School of Music?
West Chester was mentioned to me by my high school band director, Bob Barron. It was
a strong recommendation since it was such a well-rounded school. I knew what I wanted
to do and WCU seemed to be a perfect fit for both performance and education. I also
felt comfortable on the campus because of it's location in the heart of West Chester.
How has the quality of education you received from WCU and/or School of Music prepared
you for life after graduation?
I feel that I was very much prepared for my career coming out of WCU. Having to take
so many different classes throughout all 4 years, gave me a great foundation of knowledge.
My first few years of teaching I really used a lot of my books and binders that we
made in college, especially from my instrument classes and method classes.
What is a typical day like for you?
My typical teaching day consists of middle school band and group lessons. I teach
7th and 8th grade band at Penndale Middle School, and I direct the pit band for the
musical. I also direct the NP High School Navy Jazz band, which is one of two HS jazz
bands. I recently became the Department Chair for K-12 Instrumental Music as well.
What advice would you give to someone who would like to enter your field?
You absolutely MUST have a passion for what you do! In order to get your kids to do
what NEEDS to be done, they must believe in you and completely respect you. Teaching
music requires countless hours of EXTRA time and energy, which sometimes won't give
you immediate results. You have to be willing to give it your all, at all times.
What advice would you give to our graduating seniors?
Get out there and stay busy! Make as many contacts and build as much experience as
you can. Whether it be working with your old high school, teaching private lessons,
or volunteering at a summer band camp, all experience is valuable experience! Also,
I believe you really need to be the best musician you can be. Do not stop practicing
your instrument when life gets busy. You need to be able to show kids the end of the
pathway that you are building for them.
What makes the WCU School of Music standout to you?
I believe the WCU School of Music is one of the best on the East Coast! It has so
much to offer, in all areas of music and music education. The connection with the
community is really strong, which builds a great support system. Also, the professors
are relevant in the music business, and they know what students need to succeed in
today's climate. Students can participate in top-notch performing ensembles, while
also developing strong educational practices.
When you were a student at WCU, did you do an internship and/or study abroad? If so,
describe those experiences.
I did not participate in a university-sponsored internship, however I was involved
with a couple different programs within my field. For example, when I was a senior,
I developed a Jazz Band II (Lab band) at a local high school. They had more than enough
kids to fill one band, so it was a great learning experience for me to build a jazz
band from scratch. Throughout my time at WCU, I also played with local cover/wedding
bands, which allowed me to build on my career as a professional musician.
What is your favorite memory of being a student at WCU and/or School of Music?
I'd have to say being a member of the Criterions Jazz Ensemble and going on tour at
the end of each year. We would travel around to local schools/venues and perform for
about a week. The life "on the road" was filled with nothing but laughs and funny
stories.
What's the most interesting thing about you that we wouldn't learn from your resume
alone?
Well, as much as I love the trumpet, I love being a father to my two amazing children
more! I could not imagine my life without Lia and Roman, as well as my beautiful wife
Lauren. Every day truly is a blessing, and I am extremely thankful our families that
surround us.