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Michael Quantz
Founding Vice President at Texas Guitar Directors Association
Professional Background
Michael Quantz is a nationally recognized advocate for guitar education and a pioneering figure in the development of university guitar ensemble curricula. With a remarkable history of contributions to the musical landscape, he has earned the highest teaching awards within the University of Texas System and served as a professor at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Mr. Quantz has dedicated his career to elevating the standards of classical guitar education, as evidenced by his establishment of one of the foremost guitar programs in the United States.
Mr. Quantz’s expertise is showcased through his leadership of My Guitar Orchestra, an innovative ensemble that gained national acclaim for its performances, including features on the internationally syndicated “Guitar Alive!” show on NPR. His forward-thinking approach has not only led to the formation of the first guitar ensemble of its kind invited to perform at the Guitar Foundation of America (GFA) convention but has also resulted in his guitar groups receiving special invitations to showcase their talents at the Texas State Capitol. This acknowledgment underscores his commitment to performance excellence and the promotion of guitar music across diverse platforms.
In addition to directing the Guitar Studies program at Lopez High School in Brownsville, Texas, where he transformed it into one of the largest competitive high school guitar programs in the nation, Quantz has an impressive track record of fostering student success. Under his guidance, 100% of UT Brownsville guitar students have secured employment shortly after graduation, and his students consistently excel in academic and performance competitions, earning top prizes at solo events.
Education and Achievements
Michael Quantz pursued an advanced education in music, studying for a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) at the University of North Texas, where he deepened his knowledge in Guitar Performance, Music Theory, and Music History. His educational foundation has greatly contributed to his effectiveness as an educator and advocate for the musical arts, allowing him to inspire countless students and teachers alike.
His contributions extend beyond teaching, as he has also served in prominent roles within various influential organizations. His tenure as the founding Vice President of the Texas Guitar Directors Association and his previous position as Director of Education at the Guitar Foundation of America reflect his commitment to enhancing guitar education on a broader scale. Furthermore, his leadership roles at the Brownsville Society for the Performing Arts have showcased his dedication to enriching the cultural fabric of his community.
Consulting and Clinician Work
As a consultant and clinician, Mr. Quantz has been invited to conduct clinics and workshops for numerous school districts, including those in Texas, Nevada, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and at major music education conferences such as the Texas Music Educators Association Conference—the world’s largest gathering of music teachers. His recognized expertise in guitar pedagogy, ensemble conducting, and music competition administration enriches the educational experiences of music programs nationwide.
Performance Career
Mr. Quantz’s performance career is equally distinguished, with an impressive portfolio that includes conducting guitar orchestras and premiering numerous works within the classical guitar genre. His active performances, both as a solo artist and in chamber music settings, illustrate his lifelong dedication to the art of music-making. Through these performances, he not only entertains but also promotes the classical guitar, encouraging new audiences to appreciate its beauty and versatility.
Specialties and Community Engagement
Michael Quantz's specialties comprise a wide array of important aspects within classical guitar education, including training classical guitarists, preparing future guitar teachers, and conducting guitar orchestras and ensembles. His expertise also extends to classroom guitar pedagogy, evaluation, music competition administration, and community outreach initiatives. His involvement in fundraising and grant writing furthers his ambition to support music education, ensuring that resources are available to nurture the next generation of musicians.
In summary, Michael Quantz stands out as a visionary leader in guitar education whose dedication has transformed the landscape of guitar studies in both academic and community settings. His influence extends beyond teaching and performance; he actively shapes the future of music education through his advocacy, consulting, and community involvement. With a focus on helping students realize their potential and a commitment to advancing the status of classical guitar, Mr. Quantz continues to inspire both aspiring musicians and seasoned educators alike.
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Clay offers competitive pricing in the personal CRM market. Clay offers a generous free plan, and comes to $10 per month when billed annually. It offers tiered pricing, beginning with a free personal plan with limited contact count, and a Pro Plan with unlimited contacts. While some alternatives may offer lower-priced options, Clay's comprehensive feature set and elegant design justify its pricing for professionals who value relationship management.
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