Cole Wheeler

Hometown

Redondo Beach, California

Education

Riverside City College, Associate of Science in Political Science 2017-2021

Instrument

Percussion

Biography

Cole Wheeler is an Educator and composer based in Southern California. Cole is from the city of Redondo Beach where he started his musical journey taking piano lessons at the age of 7 and later went on to join his school band as percussionist. At the age of 14, He began to focus his studies on keyboard percussion.

Cole went on to attend Riverside City College where he spent 4 years studying music and performing with the Concert Band, Marching Band, Wind Ensemble, and Percussion Ensemble. In addition, Cole was given the opportunity to perform as a pianist with the Piano Ensemble, Jazz Lab Band, and Jazz Combo. During his time at Riverside City College, Cole studied Concert Percussion with Jason Goodman and Steven Schmidt, and studied Piano with Joel Paat.

Cole is currently pursuing a degree in Music Education at California Baptist University where he performs with various ensembles. Cole is also the Winner of the 2023 CBU Concerto/ Aria competition. During his time at California Baptist University, Cole has studied piano with J. Michael O’Neal and Dr. Andres Jaramillo and is currently studying Percussion with Matthew McConnell. Outside of academics, Cole also maintains a private instruction studio, works as a freelance pianist, and works with several school music programs as an instructor, composer, and arranger.

What inspired you to go into music?

I was inspired by my piano teacher, Dini Clarke.

What is an interesting fact about you?

I grew up on the beach and love surfing.

What activities do you enjoy in your spare time?

Video games, reading, composing, and surfing.

What are you most excited for about this 2024-2025 season?

Disney Music!!!

Favorite Musical Quote:

“What’s the problem? This isn’t even that hard!”

-Lauren Hutson