Clovis schools' new music director excited for opportunity

When Yucca Middle School assistant principal Brandon Boerio recently accepted the position of Clovis Municipal Schools Director of Music Education, he quickly realized he was about embark upon a journey that would allow him to combine a pair of favored pursuits.

"I'm very excited about the opportunity," said Boerio, who is in his ninth year with the Clovis school district after four years with Portales Municipal Schools. "I will remain in administration while also working with the entire music department, which is the best of both worlds."

Boerio, formerly the assistant band director at Clovis High School and head band director at Portales Municipal Schools, takes the reins from the retired Alan Dropps, who played a vital role in Boerio's professional growth and development.

"Mr. Dropps was a mentor and served as my administrator here in Clovis," said Boerio, who earned a bachelor's degree in Education from Eastern New Mexico University and a master's degree in Administration at Wayland Baptist University. "When the opportunity to apply presented itself, I was excited about the prospect. Mr. Dropps encouraged me to pursue the graduate degree in administration and it's an honor to replace him. It's the opportunity to get back to music, which is my passion."

The fact the Clovis Municipal Schools music department has had decades of success is not lost on Boerio.

"I certainly see it as a challenge while also finding new ways to succeed," he said. "We want to honor those who have forged the path that has resulted in a rich tradition. Our students have the talent and work ethic to be recognized at the national level. There's a lot of work and dedication involved, but we believe such a goal is attainable. There is a culture within our music department where the students are exposed to excellent teaching at a high level."

Boerio said the instructional seed was planted during his formative years, which led to a career in education.

"I grew up as a percussionist," said Boerio, who has also performed at Carnegie Hall as a vocalist. "And my band and choir directors were very encouraging. Teaching is just in my blood. I always enjoyed helping friends in band and being a section leader. I've had a lot of good teachers along the way who helped me embrace and appreciate all genres of music. From rock and jazz to orchestra, there are intertwined elements in all genres. That's a takeaway we want all of our students to grasp."

Boerio will assume his new duties this month. Dropps' final day was Wednesday.

"It was great meeting with the top directors and sharing my vision for the department," he said with regard to the interviewing process. "And I'm thrilled to work with so many dedicated music educators and students who are focused on meeting goals on a daily basis."