Mrs. Ellis
"We have a very dynamic and inclusive music department here at Wilson High School. I have been a part of this program since 2010, teaching the string orchestras, Symphonic Winds and Symphony Orchestra (a combination of our Symphonic Winds, Advanced Chamber Strings and Symphony Strings). I have also been known to teach a beginning guitar and piano class when the need arises.
What makes our instrumental music program stand apart is the varied depth of classes we offer (from beginning/intermediate to advanced levels), the high level of performance our groups achieve, and the close camaraderie our students develop and enjoy. Our top groups have achieved high honors, awards, and trophies for their festival performances. Our Symphony Orchestra and Symphonic winds have traveled for performances and festivals in California (World Strides San Francisco, San Diego, Los Angeles/Hollywood festivals), Utah (Dixie State University clinic/performance and Zion National Park tour) and New York (World Strides Festivals of Gold 2016, Carnegie Hall) We firmly believe in creating opportunities outside of the classroom for students to learn, connect, perform and grow.
Thank you for your continual support and involvement as we give young people the opportunity to study and participate in this worthy artform."
Mrs. Ellis
Mr. Hamilton
"Thanks for visiting our music department page. If you made it here, then you likely care about quality of music education available to the students at Wilson.
Rest assured, I am well aware of the positive impact a thriving music program can have on students' overall happiness and success during school and in life. For that reason, I have dedicated my life to becoming the best music educator and leader possible. I genuinely care about each and every student who comes through my door and will push them to achieve more then they believe possible.
At Wilson Music, there is a place for every student who wants to participate, no matter their experience or playing level. Our entry level classes have been the springboard for some of our most successful musicians. Our intermediate and advanced level classes are open to all students, regardless of grade level. This is not the case at all schools.
It is a true pleasure teaching the students at Wilson High School. Great things are ahead!
Mr. Hamilton
Assistants & Coaches
Matt Brislawn
Assistant Orchestra Director
Matt Brislawn, affectionately and abbreviatedly known as 'Mr. B', was educated in the
Long Beach school system, and has been proud to continue working with young people in music education at Wilson High School since 1997. He is also very active as a working violinist in several area symphony and chamber orchestras, and enjoys fiddling with a local Long Beach Irish band, the Whooligans. Matt also teaches privately on the violin, viola, mandolin and guitar; and enjoys doing crossword puzzles in ink. Matt has been here for over 20 years as violin/viola coach and assistant.