Parker Yi is a senior at Eastern New Mexico University and is double majoring in music education and instrumental performance on the euphonium. Yi was the first at Eastern to receive the Presser Undergraduate Award. The Presser Foundation established this award to bring recognition to students who have outstanding levels of musical and academic excellence.

Yi is originally from Portales, New Mexico, and joined band in the seventh grade. Before deciding to pursue a musical profession, he wanted to be a software engineer, but with some influence from family and friends, he changed his mind. Throughout high school, Yi was heavily involved in the arts and always felt most at home when he was making music with friends.

"It was an honor to hear that I had received the award," Yi said. Throughout school, Yi has excelled with his academics, and he has also achieved high levels of success in his personal life as well. "It's very rewarding, and being able to regularly see improvement motivates me to keep practicing every day," he said.

When it came time for Yi to pick a college to attend, he wanted to find somewhere new. Ultimately, he decided to stay local. "I am glad I stayed here for undergrad as the people I have met and experiences I've had along the way are irreplaceable to me," Yi said. Some of the experiences include playing at both of his degree recitals, performing at numerous ENMU recital events, and winning several scholarships due to his musical and academic achievements.

Yi feels honored to be the first student at ENMU to receive the Presser Award. He works hard in his studies and in other activities at Eastern. "I always strive for the highest in whatever I do," he said. "So, I think receiving the Presser Award is a symbol of that."

Yi believes that seeing himself grow is what helps him stay motivated. "Every day I aim to prove my own ability to create music, in one way or another," Yi said. He is always finding new ways to learn, and teach, but also make connections with others while making music. "Not every day is easy, but being able to constantly engage with this art-form that I love has made my college career much easier," he said.

Dustin Seifert, director of bands at ENMU, shares nothing but good words about Yi. "He is intelligent, dedicated, loyal, and committed to our art form," Seifert said. He explains how much of a leader Yi is, whether that be as a principal player, section leader, or student leader. Prior to attending Eastern, Mr. Seifert has led Yi to great success since taking the role of being his private instructor. Yi has also performed in ensembles directed by Dr. Sidney Shuler as well.

Yi believes that there are many opportunities and experiences to choose from at Eastern. "All of the music faculty are extremely approachable," he said. "And the small scale of the University allows for a much more familial atmosphere in the music building." Yi feels that maintaining balance and motivation is what helps you to be able to enjoy a hobby. "If you are burning yourself out, find outlets to relieve your stress," Yi said.

Following graduation, Yi plans to continue pursuing his musical profession. He has auditioned at five different schools and has been accepted into each one. After graduate school, Yi plans to seek professional performing opportunities, and continue his education further. In the future, Yi wants to be known as an approachable and dependable teacher and musician in his career. "I think receiving the award is a sign to others that I am a knowledgeable and well-rounded musician," Yi said.