Steve Engel has been an Instrumental Music Teacher with the Bakersfield City School District since August of 2001. He earned his bachelor’s degree at the University of North Texas with a concentration in Jazz Studies/Composition. He later earned his Master’s degree and teaching credential from California State University, East Bay (formerly CSU Hayward).
His current role involves teaching wind, strings, and percussion to beginning and intermediate students in grades 3 – 8. He also teaches private saxophone lessons to intermediate and advanced level students, specializing in jazz styles and improvisation. Prior to his present position, Steve taught at Livermore High School. The teaching load with this job also involved working with elementary students, and it was here he discovered the joy of working with beginners.
Steve is an active composer and arranger, specializing in works for young musicians. He is currently preparing a portfolio to submit to various publishers of instrumental music.
While in high school, Steve was selected as one of two Californians in the McDonald’s All-American Band and Jazz Band. These groups performed on nationally televised events such as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Jerry Lewis Telethon.
Steve, his wife, and their two daughters reside in Bakersfield, CA. His avatar is a photo of the pastry whose name is the title of every elementary music teacher’s beloved melody, Hot Cross Buns.
