Name: Damien Emilien
Major at ISU: Music
Graduation Year: 2007
Hometown: New Orleans, LA
Current Residence: Gurnee, IL
What were you involved in during your time at ISU:
I took part in jazz band, wind ensemble, orchestra, as well as my very own brass band!
What do you currently do for a living:
I serve in the Navy as a Musician: Petty Officer 2nd Class.
Can you share a particularly interesting or inspiring story that occurred in your career?
The moment I knew I was good enough to play music professionally. In the summer of 2009, I was hired to play lead trumpet for the Disney All-American college band. It was the first time I played with musicians from other colleges (even big music conservatories and music schools). I fit in. It let me know I can do anything I put my mind to.
Are there other ways that you participate in your community and/or how you engage as a Citizen Artist?
As a musician, I have performed at many community outreach events. Planning these community events for the Navy Band in the Great Lakes area is a large part of my job as well.
How did your time at ISU prepare you for your career?
It allowed me to hone my skills to be adaptable to any ensemble or environment.
What was your favorite class while you were at ISU? Why?
Conducting with Dr. Harrison. It allowed me to view music from outside the performing perspective. It forced to me ask myself: How do you communicate with people? How do you affect music without an instrument in your hand?
How was your involvement in music and theatre beneficial in different parts of your life?
Being able to be with people from different backgrounds than mine. Being a young black man from a bad neighborhood in New Orleans, I learned to find common ground with people much different than me.
Any words of wisdom for current or prospective students?
Find what you love, and give it your all! Be the best at what you want to do. You will never be disappointed as long as you give it your all.
Is there anything that you would like to share?
Music brought me from poverty to being able to provide for my family. Music inspired me to be a better person and it keeps me wanting to push forward. Music can take you wherever you want, just be good at it and commit to the relationship. You will get much more than you ever expected.