Xander Mancino, Jazz Los Alamos
Alexander Mancino is a multi-instrumentalist, music educator, songwriter, and recording artist. He graduated from Arizona State University in 2020 with a Bachelors in Music, focusing on jazz piano and ethnomusicology. Currently based in Los Alamos, he teaches three Jazz Project combos, leads Jazz Band II at LAHS, works at the Duane Smith Auditorium, regularly plays jazz and pop gigs in the surrounding community, and writes and records original music in his home studio using multitracking techniques. When he has time to indulge in activities outside of music, Xander enjoys hiking, reading, playing board games, and designing clothes. As one of the first Jazz Project students, Xander is proud to be back as an educator contributing to its legacy.
Zachary Vigus, Running Start Orchestra Conductor
Zachary Vigus earned a Bachelor of Music in Cello Performance from the University of California, Santa Barbara and a Master of Music in Cello Performance from California State University in Sacramento. He began private studies after a hearing life-changing performance of the Rachmaninov Cello Sonata’s slow movement. Zach is currently the orchestra director at Capital High School and Ortiz Middle School for the Santa Fe Public Schools, where he enjoys teaching string students from beginners to All-State. As a private studio teacher, Zach’s students have won music scholarships, seats in All-State Orchestras, spots in university music programs, and pre-college spots with prominent conservatory programs.