Leilani Chagolla

Hometown

Bloomington, California

Education

Riverside City College, Associate of the Arts 2025

Instrument

Tenor Saxophone

Biography

Leilani Chagolla is currently a student at Riverside City College, where she is pursuing her Associate of Arts degree in performance. When Leilani was in high school, she was a part of the San Bernardino County Honor Band her senior year. As a current RCC student, Leilani is studying tenor saxophone under Professor Charlie Richards. Leilani is also a part of the RCC Concert Band and the RCC Jazz Ensemble, under the direction of Professor James Rocillo.

What inspired you to go into music?

Growing up, I was always around music. My grandparents listened to oldies all the time, and my grandfather is a member of A Little Bit of Soul - an oldies band. Due to this upbringing, music was something I was passionate about even before I started playing an instrument. At age 10 I decided that I wanted to play the saxophone. I had already fallen in love with the sound when I was younger, and once I got my hands on one, I immediately knew that this is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. Playing saxophone filled in an empty part of my soul. I knew at a very young age that I was going to pursue music no matter what I needed to do to get there, because it is something I love so dearly. When I made my way to high school, my love and passion for music was still as bright as ever. Even now, I could never picture myself doing anything other than music as a career. 

What is an interesting fact about you?

I love the show Bob’s Burgers.

What activities do you enjoy in your spare time?

I enjoy going out with friends and trying different coffee/ boba shops. 

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

I am most excited to play music I've never played before. I am also really excited to meet new people.

Favorite Musical Quote:

The soul of the artist can be found in the notes they play.

- Dexter Gordon