Student of Distinction: Jego Canlas

Jego Canlas is graduating with a B.A. in music education and is the Dean’s Medal nominee for the Department of Music.

“He commands a full, expressive tone, and during the time that I have taught him, he has been ever vigilant in developing and refining his interpretive skills,” said Dr. Thomas Hiebert, professor. “He is always interested in improving himself, is very aware of and sensitive to the needs of others, and truly loves music.” 

Canlas went to Lemoore High School, where he was intensely involved in the campus culture, participating in organizations like the Lemoore Environmental Awareness Foundation club, Band council and more. He graduated 10th in his class with an Arts honor cord.

At Fresno State, Canlas was a part of nearly every instrumental ensemble, including the Bulldog Marching Band, Bulldog Beat, Wind Orchestra, Symphonic Band, Symphony Orchestra, Horn Ensemble and the President’s Quintet.

Outside of education, Canlas spends much of his time volunteering at the middle school during the annual Pancake Breakfast fundraiser, coaching for a youth basketball camp, and helping run indoor winter guard and percussion events held locally at the high school and community college. He is a Kings County Symphony Orchestra member and has been a marching band coach for Lemoore High School and Sunnyside High School.

“His kindness, thoughtfulness, and approachability make him a leader within the department and the general Fresno State community,” explained Dr. Meghan Bennet.

Canlas is a Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia music fraternity member and the Fresno State Bulldog Marching Band Council member. During his time at Fresno State, he has received the Bulldog Beat Athletic Scholarship, the President’s Quintet Scholarship, the Marth Hagen Music Scholarship and the James Winter Memorial Brass Scholarship.

After graduation, Canlas will be entering the credential program to be able to teach the following year. After gaining a few years of teaching experience, he intends to pursue a master’s in Instrumental Conducting.

“Finding it within myself that I want to be a teacher and mentor to students and make such an impact on them that my directors and professors have made on me is what I thrive for. The end goal will always be to be a teacher, whether that be middle school, high school or maybe even at a college.”