About

About T. Edward Vives

Edward Vives musical beginnings trace back to Auburn, Alabama, where he began piano lessons with Edgar and Dorothy Glyde at just four years old. This early introduction to music ignited a lifelong passion. His journey continued through his public school years, where he expanded his skills to include trombone performance and music composition.

Studied Years and Early Career

His academic pursuit led him to Florida State University, where he achieved bachelor’s degrees in Composition and Music Education. There, he studied under esteemed composers like John Boda and Charles Carter while developing his trombone performance skills with William Cramer and John Drew and honing his conducting skills under James Croft. This dedication to his craft propelled him to further his studies, earning a Master of Music in Composition and Music Theory, followed by a Ph.D. in Music Education from the University of Florida.

Award-Winning Achievements

His current role as the Musical and Artistic Director of the Los Alamos Community Winds has brought him significant recognition. The ensemble has been a consistent finalist in the American Prize, Community Wind Ensemble Division, achieving first runner-up in 2012. His compositions, acclaimed globally, have won prestigious awards like the North Cheshire 2003 Composition Competition. His notable roles as the Commissioned Composer for the Professional Music Teachers of New Mexico in 2003 and 2010, and awards including the 2011 American Prize in Composition (Choral Division) and a third-place finish in the 2015 American Prize in Conducting, underscore his artistic excellence.

Current Work

His professional journey encompasses numerous artistic and academic roles. His dedication to music education has led him to serve as the State Composition Chair for the Professional Music Teachers of New Mexico. He was also the artistic and Musical Director for the White Mountain Symphony Orchestra in Show Low, AZ, from 2015 to 2023. His professional memberships span various prestigious organizations, including Kappa Kappa Psi, Tau Beta Sigma, and the National Band Association.

Hobbies

His childhood love for building finds expression in his Star Trek Scale Modeling and Sewing/Costume creation hobbies. These pursuits reflect his passion for creativity and innovation, paralleling his professional musical endeavors.

Personal Life

Ted enjoys a fulfilling personal life in White Rock, NM, with his wife Paula, their children Alex and Abby, and their cherished pets.

Charitable Activities

His sense of community responsibility is evident in his charitable work, including regular donations to the NAACP and DNC.

Edward Vives is a paragon of visionary artistry, professional dedication, and a collaborative ethos. His career is a beacon of inspiration, and his life celebrates balance, commitment, and creativity.