Teacher Bio

John Bocanegra (Glendora): John has been part of the Gard’s Music teaching staff since 1996. He grew up in a very musical family and began drumming at the age of 5. John has a wealth of knowledge and experience to aid anyone in the advancement of their skill. John has a broad array of musical experience. He has taught at Upland High School (93’, 94’), San Dimas High School (96’, 97’) and Chaffey High School (96’, 97’, 98’) as the marching band drumline instructor. John has also performed in many theater pit bands for Broadway shows and in rock, blues, and jazz groups throughout southern California. From 1997-2005, John was as an accompanist Mt. San Antonio College’s vocal jazz groups Singcopation & Frontline. Along with many colligate festivals and competitions, John has also performed at the International Association of Jazz Educators Conventions (IAJE) in New York City and Toronto, Canada.
In 1994, John, along with members of Christian rock group Stryper, formed the Christian rock group Sin Dizzy. They released an album in 1998. In the summer of 1999, he was called to play drums for Stryper themselves along with solo Christian artist Michael Sweet for a large show in Puerto Rico.
John grew up in Upland, California and is married to his beautiful wife Laura. They have four energetic boys; Declan, identical twins Thatcher and Monroe, and Silas. John loves to play the drums and root for the Dallas Cowboys!

Approach to Teaching:

“My approach to teaching is to focus on the fundamentals. Each from the youngest to the oldest, student will learn how to read music, develop proper technique, and explore/learn music theory, and be introduced to a variety of music styles. I believe that everyone has the ability to succeed at music if they have the right approach. Thus, I tailor each lesson plan to the individual student. That helps us find the right approach and uncover the easiest path to success.”