Juan Rivera

Hometown

Fontana, California

Education

Riverside City College, Associates of the Arts 2025

Instrument

Viola and Clarinet

Biography

Juan Rivera is currently a student at Riverside City College, where he studies both the viola and clarinet. He studies viola under Dr. Xander Knecht and Dr. Gene Moon, and clarinet under Arnel Ignacio and Dr. Joshua Philips. Juan plans to transfer from RCC to a four-year institution to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Music Education. Juan graduated from Henry J. Kaiser High School, where he participated in the orchestra, wind ensemble, and concert band. He began playing the viola in sixth grade under the guidance of his teacher, Sara Dvorak Torres, who helped him develop a passion for music. In his freshman year of high school, Juan picked up the clarinet and quickly became one of the top players in his district on both instruments. As a principal violist, he earned top chairs in the San Bernardino County Honor Orchestra for six consecutive years throughout his high school career. In 2023, he had the distinctive honor of performing under the baton of and soloing alongside the famous composer Soon Hee Newbold. At Riverside City College, Juan is currently a member of the concert band, wind ensemble, and symphony orchestra.

What inspired you to go into music?

While in Elementary School, the neighboring Middle School Orchestra would come and play for us to recruit us. I instantly fell in love with music and wanted to be apart and play an instrument.

What is an interesting fact about you?

I am firm believer that a hot dog is a Sandwich.

What activities do you enjoy in your spare time?

I love hanging out with friends and making memories with them.

What are you most excited for about this 2024-2025 season?

Meeting new people and being able to make Music with them!

Favorite Musical Quote:

“Music is the divine way to tell beautiful, poetic things to the heart.”

-Pablo Casals