Juan Sebastian Valdez was born in Anaheim, California and moved to Oregon with his parents when he was 7. At age 11, he began playing the tuba on the recommendation of his middle school band teacher who was short on low brass players. By age of 13, Valdez was actively involved in music at school, but soon faced an impossible choice: giving up the tuba forever to remain with his parents who were returning back to Mexico, or remaining in the US to pursue a life focused on making music. Valdez made the tough decision to separate from his family and remain in the states. He lived with his childhood best friend so he could pursue an education in the United States. Valdez’s gamble would pay off as his work ethic led great success.

Valdez won 3rd place in Young Artist Competition at the Northwest Regional Tuba/Euphonium Conference (NWRTEC). In addition, Valdez was a part of the Ducktet, a tuba and euphonium quartet at the University of Oregon, that received 1st place in the Quartet Competition at the NWRTEC. Valdez has performed with the Memphis Symphony Orchestra, Eugene Symphony Orchestra, the Salem (OR) Symphony Orchestra, and invited to play with Vancouver (WA) Symphony Orchestra.

Valdez is an active performer and teacher. He has given master classes at Mississippi State University, Colorado State University, and at the University of Memphis. Valdez currently plays in the Bluff City Brass Quintet in Memphis, Tennessee where they focus on playing diverse repertoire and educational outreach. Valdez played with a Mexican Banda ensemble in Memphis, TN on sousaphone and has performed throughout the city of Memphis in public venues. Valdez has done non-profit work as a Teaching Artist at Memphis Music Initiative, an organization that invests in youth development through transformative music engagement, creating equitable opportunities for black and brown youth in Memphis. In addition, Valdez is currently on faculty at PRIZM Ensemble which builds diverse community through chamber music education, youth development, and performance.

Valdez teaches at Overton High School for the Creative and Performing Arts as the Assistant Band Director in Memphis, TN, as well as having a private studio in the Memphis area. His students have placed in local honor bands.

Valdez holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Oregon in tuba performance, a master’s degree in tuba performance and music education from the University of Memphis. Valdez’s primary teachers are Michael Grose, Dr. Kevin Sanders, Stephen Dombrowski, and Jarrett McCourt. When he is not practicing or teaching, he enjoys going to poultry swaps, playing board games, and cooking authentic Mexican food.