During the summer, we’re highlighting some of SPU’s outstanding graduates nominated by faculty and staff.
Brandon Hunter graduated with a B.A. in music, with an emphasis music technology. He took the time to answer some questions.
Hometown
I've lived in Seattle my entire life. I grew up in Wallingford, so that area in particular feels like home, although right now I'm living in Queen Anne.
Favorite memories from your years at SPU?
This is a tough question. I have a lot of good memories of chatting with professors, playing concerts, spending long nights in the library, the studio, or the practice rooms, and hanging out with friends around campus. It feels like a bit of a standard answer, but those are the memories I cherish most.
Biggest lesson you learned in college?
That the learning never stops, no matter where you are or what you're doing.
Funniest thing a professor did in class?
Oh man, no doubt about this question. One of my professors did a ventriloquists act where he played piano with one hand, drank a glass of water with the other hand, and sang "Swanee River" all at the same time! I'd never seen anything like that before. It was awesome! I still have no idea how he pulled it off.
What are you doing now? Plans for next year?
I'm working a handful of temp jobs right now, and focusing on starting up a trombone studio in the fall. I'm also loving the chance to catch up on the things in life I didn't have time for all school year.
I also have plans to work with some local hip-hop artists on an album they've been trying to put together with me for about a year. They've been around Seattle a long time but haven't recorded much. It's always fun working with artists like that; they have so much energy and enthusiasm.
Perfect dream job?
I'd love to own my own studio and use it for recording as well as teaching trombone lessons. I've got a lot of saving up to do, but someday!
Advice for prospective SPU students?
I know it's tempting to rush through college and move on to the next step in life, but don't forget to appreciate and enjoy the step you're on.
Anything else you would like to add?
A big thanks to all the professors I had who went above and beyond, and really took the effort to make each class period feel like so much more. I learned countless lessons from all of you that I will take with me for the rest of my life. I wouldn't be a shadow of the man I am without your help. Thank you so much; you are all amazing people!
Posted: Tuesday, July 12, 2011