University scholarships are an affirmation and encouragement to students who earn them and receive them. For many, those recognitions bring the confidence necessary to make it in the competitive and quixotic world of professional performers. The Bob Cole Conservatory of Music is so proud of the alumni who continue to soar through the world of musical performance.

Rachel Trumbore graduated from the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music with her Masters of Music Degree in Trombone Performance and a College of the Arts Creative Achievement Award. Since graduating, Rachel has regularly played with the San Diego Symphony, and has performed with The Who, Weird Al Yankovic, Hugh Jackman, Johnny Mathis, and Common. On top of performing, Rachel is the Adjunct Brass Professor at Aurora University. Rachel is grateful for the scholarships and support she received while a student, and appreciates all of the professors, faculty, and experiences at BCCM that helped shape her into the person and musician she is today.

Scholarships make a huge difference in the lives of CSULB students. It is an affirmation of talent, skill, and dedication and funds that lift some of the financial burden for students juggling academic and artistic pursuits and studies at the same time. 

Meet Mark:

Mark Alpizar began his studies at the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music as an undergraduate student on clarinet receiving scholarships for the BCCM woodwind quintet. He later continued his studies and earned a Masters in Conducting from the BCCM. He has been one of the most gifted students for whom scholarship made a real difference, keeping his training at the Conservatory affordable for him. After earning his Doctorate in Conducting at Arizona State University, he now operates a comprehensive Youth Orchestra program in Vermont while expanding his professional conducting career.