Oralina Gomez | percussion front ensemble instructor
Oralina Gomez has been a percussionist since 2015, starting their freshman year playing auxiliary in the front ensemble. Oralina performed all 4 years in their front ensemble and eventually became percussion captain at Sultana High School. The ability to lead and teach their section made a lasting impact, and Oralina wanted to continue teaching in some capacity after high school. After graduating, they auditioned and marched mallets for the Riverside City College Marching Tigers in 2019 and 2023, plus Catalyst Indoor Percussion Ensemble in 2020. Ever since the pandemic quarantine had ended their 2020 season abruptly, they had wanted to reconnect with music and continue their love for teaching and helping others. Now "aged-out" of the activity, Oralina is honored to be a member of the Redlands High School Instrumental Music instructional staff, debuting with the new Redlands Terrier Percussion Ensemble in 2023.
When Oralina is not teaching, they are pursuing their passion in art and storytelling. They spend their free time at home working on these projects with the company of their dog, Bobbie. Bobbie has made a name for herself with the students, and will continue to inspire generations to come.