Antonio Suarez '16 grew up in LaPlace, LA, and has been involved with music since the fourth grade, when he started playing the trumpet. His love for music continued while at Brother Martin High School in New Orleans where he also discovered a passion for arranging and composing music for various ensembles including the marching band. While in High School, he also participated in the Greater New Orleans Youth Orchestra, district honor bands, and LMEA All State ensembles.  Academically, Tony has always worked hard to achieve the best results possible. This fueled an admiration for learning which led him to participate in Mu Alpha Theta, Beta Club, National Honor Society, and to take AP Courses.

Tony's passion for teaching music came alive while serving as the Drum Major of the Crusader Band, especially while teaching music that he composed for the 2016 Spring Concert. This led to his attendance to Florida State University to pursue a degree in Instrumental Music Education. Some of his greatest experiences include playing with the Marching Chiefs, the FSU Philharmonia Orchestra, the FSU Rock Ensemble and countless other ensembles. Tony gained invaluable experience by teaching his peers his trumpet ensemble arrangements for the FSU PRISM Concerts and the National Trumpet Competition, giving private trumpet lessons throughout his college career, working as Brass Instructor for the Florida High School Marching Braves, and student teaching at Shoal River Middle School. This myriad of experiences and opportunities have amalgamated into an education that has prepared him to lead a successful band program.

Antonio hopes to draw from his experiences to bring a deeper appreciation, understanding, and love of music to his students at Tioga High School. From the hype of the War Chant to the precise artistry of performing in a concert band, Antonio eagerly awaits the opportunities to teach his students how to be great musicians and to make music in the hall of the Band of Indians.