Ivan Trevino joins the Butler School of Music faculty as an assistant professor of practice after previously teaching in the school as a lecturer. Trevino is a Mexican-American composer, percussionist, writer and arts advocate. He has shared his music with audiences around the world, from Asia to South America to Madison Square Garden in New York City.
Tell us about the classes you’ll be teaching this year.
I’ll be teaching one-on-one applied music lessons to undergraduate and graduate percussion students. In the spring, I’ll be teaching a new class I created titled Co-Write, which will have students creating songs and pieces together in group settings.
What attracted you to the Butler School of Music and The University of Texas at Austin?
Butler School has an international reputation, and a good friend of mine, Dr. Thomas Burritt, just completed his 20th year teaching here. There was an opening in his department, with an opportunity to collaborate and work under him. I've always thought it would be a great partnership and opportunity. The stars aligned and I couldn’t be happier. On top of that, I travel a lot for music related things, and Austin has been home for me for almost a decade now. I love living here and am happy to have a teaching home not far from where I live.
How did your professional pathway lead to your focus?
I’ve been creating music for almost 20 years now, and while my work falls under the classical music umbrella, I’m really a songwriter and rock musician at heart. I’ve made a point to embrace all parts of my musical self, which has helped my own path greatly. This spirit of authenticity and well-roundedness is something I encourage my UT students to find and explore.
What’s something that students and colleagues should know about you?
I want people to know, especially students, that I’m here to help them. To major in music is brave and to make art, your life is difficult. Teachers and mentors are crucial to this path. I’m certainly indebted to the previous educators in my life who helped me. I’m here to do the same for others.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not teaching/researching/working?
You will very likely find me at one of the local coffee establishments during off-hours. One of my new favorites is a little coffee trailer on Webberville Road called Desnudo. They collaborate with Colombian coffee farmers and serve a variety of single estate coffees. If I’m not there, I’m most likely with our kiddos at the Thinkery, their favorite children’s museum.