On February 19, 2025, Walfredo Reyes Jr., the esteemed drummer for the legendary band Chicago, dedicated a day to imparting his extensive industry knowledge to students at Terra State Community College. The event featured a series of masterclasses where Reyes shared invaluable career insights, practice techniques, and recording tips with recording arts students, Vanguard-Sentinel students, and members of the public.
During a two-hour session, Walfredo Reyes Jr captivated an audience of 60 individuals, each equipped with headphones, as he performed live gig tracks from Chicago in a recital hall adjacent to the college’s recording studio. Beyond his impressive musical demonstrations, Reyes emphasised the paramount importance of the groove in music. He articulated that a drummer’s primary responsibility is to ensure the song feels good, stating, “The groove is No. 1. The rest comes second.” Reyes underscored that when the groove resonates, it elevates the entire song, making both the music and the musician shine.
Reflecting on his 14-year tenure with Chicago and collaborations with artists like Carlos Santana and Steve Winwood, Reyes shared personal anecdotes that highlighted the significance of adaptability and resilience in the music industry. He drew parallels between music and life, noting that both are in constant motion and require individuals to move forward despite challenges. “Music is always moving forward. Time doesn’t wait for you to have grievances,” Reyes remarked, emphasising the necessity of perseverance and a positive outlook.
Reyes also delved into the human aspects of music, discussing how mistakes can lead to unexpected creativity and growth. He encouraged students to embrace errors as opportunities, sharing stories of musicians who transformed mistakes into innovative musical expressions. “Humans make mistakes,” he acknowledged, highlighting that compassion, understanding, and forgiveness are as essential in music as they are in life.
Throughout the masterclass, Reyes engaged directly with students, offering personalized advice and sharing experiences from his illustrious career. He emphasized that the qualities musicians exhibit off-stage—such as empathy and open-mindedness—are equally vital on-stage, fostering a cohesive and dynamic musical environment.
The event profoundly impacted attendees, providing them with a rare opportunity to learn from a seasoned professional who seamlessly blends technical mastery with heartfelt passion. Reyes’ visit not only enriched the students’ educational experience but also inspired them to approach their musical journeys with dedication, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the groove.
As the day concluded, the resonance of Reyes’ wisdom and rhythm lingered, leaving an indelible mark on the Terra State Community College community and aspiring musicians alike.