Josh Martzke

Academics / Departments & Programs / Music / Meet Our Majors

Have you received any awards?

Yes, I have received multiple, generous awards in my two years at Calvin. I have received the Friends of Music Scholarship; Dean’s Scholarship; John R. and Marie A. Swierenga Brass Scholarship; and the Coram Deo Award.

Describe your experience at Calvin in three words.

Inspiring, supportive community.

What led you to Calvin Univeristy and the study of music?

Music has been a part of my life for many years. Ever since I started playing in middle school, I have sought out numerous ways to challenge and expand my musical experience. Several of which include numerous honor bands, such as two years at the Michigan Youth Arts Festival, two years with the MSBOA All-State Band, three years with the Michigan State Spartan Youth Wind Symphony, as well as many solo and ensemble events. All of these wonderful opportunities really inspired me to pursue a career in music of some sorts. In high school, the spark of my passion for music truly ignited when I was selected to be the drum major for our high school marching band. It was there that I discovered that I enjoyed the teaching aspect of music as well as being able to guide and help students along the way. I became intrigued with the idea of becoming a band director and introducing the beauty of music into students’ lives. That’s what led me to become a Music Education major. As far as my decision to come to Calvin goes, I wasn’t really sure where I wanted to go. I had several college options in mind but after visiting Calvin and talking to some of the music faculty, I realized this was the place I was being called to. The sense that the professors truly cared about the individual growth of their students was an incredibly, heartwarming feeling.

What do you enjoy most about being a music major?

I think the best thing about being a music major is the idea that, together, we are a community who supports one another. Every music class that I have had, everyone is always talking about the latest recital or the repertoire they are performing in their ensemble or group. Every professor seems to be genuinely interested in the success of their students as well as their lives. It reminds me of a big, happy family! Music is meant to bring people together from across all different nations and cultures; it is the reason why we make music. It is something that connects people on an emotional level as well. Being a music major allows me to experience first hand the power that music holds.

When do you plan to graduate and with what degree?

I’m aiming for spring of 2018 with a degree in Instrumental Music Education.

What do you want to be when you grow up?

If it all works out, I would like to be a band director at a school and then work on my Master’s Degree in Wind Conducting. I do not have a particular grade level in mind, though. I originally wanted to just direct at the high school level but after taking a few courses here at Calvin, I have discovered that every grade matters and sometimes the best grades to teach are the younger ones, which is where I can take my passion for music and expose students to the wonderful, inspiring secrets within the realm of music.

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