Luis Burke, an Eastern New Mexico University student majoring in music education, hopes to one day become a band director for a university.
"When I set foot in Buchanan Hall, it reminds me not just who I am now, but who I will be later on in the future: Dr. Burke the director of bands," said Luis. "I don't want my students just to play their instrument; I want them to make music and not only make the audience listen, but make them feel it."
Luis takes part in several ensembles at Eastern, including Jazz Band, Wind Ensemble, Brass Choir and Symphonic Band.
He was recently named to the Greyhound Connection Honor Roll, an award given to first-time freshmen for earning a grade point average of 3.0 or higher.
ENMU Department of Music faculty members Dr. Sidney Shuler, Mr. Dustin Seifert and Dr. Richard Schwartz were mentors to Luis during his first year at Eastern.
Luis said that during his trumpet lessons with Dr. Shuler, the professor helped him "improve and become a better musician through time. He taught me how to approach music differently."
He plans on graduating from ENMU in spring of 2022 with a bachelor's degree in music education and has yet to decide where to go to receive his master's degree.
Luis chose his major due to his lifelong love of music. "I always had a passion for music, not only just to listen to it, but to perform it as well," he explained.
He chose to attend ENMU because it had an "amazing music department for such a low cost."
His favorite part of being a Greyhound is that the professors "get to know you as well to help you succeed in the class."
Luis encourages his fellow Greyhounds in the Music Program to step out of their bubble and enjoy the ride.
"The minute you set foot on campus you will begin your journey to your musical career, practice every day on your repertoire and break out of your comfort zone. Expect to be performing in front of others frequently and never forget to have fun!"
Luis was born in El Paso, Texas, and raised in Deming, New Mexico. His mother, Gabriela Burke, works as a social worker for Adult Protective Services. His sister, Mariana Burke, is in the nursing program at New Mexico State University.
