June 2026 Student Spotlight: Spencer York

The June 2026 Student Spotlight is longtime Stages student, Spencer York. Spencer was nominated by his instructor, Taso Kotsos, who says:

“Spencer York has been a great drum student for more than 4 years. Taking full advantage of the band program, he has participated in at least 4 bands.

His passion and talent for playing rock music have increased tenfold. His precise learning of songs and fantastic timing helped his band, “The Breadheads”, to have an excellent sound.

His attitude and performance have become more professional with his years of experience in lessons, diligent practice, and the band program. He’s been one of my greatest students here at Stages!”

Congratulations, Spencer! We’re excited to watch your musical growth continue. Read the interview with Spencer below to learn about his musical influences, goals, and more!

Which instrument do you study?

I play the drums, and I have been playing for about 7 years now.

Who is your teacher and what do you appreciate about them?

My teacher is Taso, and I really appreciate the level of experience that he has.

He’s told me stories about how he uses the same things that he teaches me, and it’s really made me appreciate what I’m learning. He has a cool new thing for me to learn every week, and it’s always a ton of fun.

Which genres of music do you enjoy listening to or playing?

I love listening to and playing alternative rock. I also like listening to some electronic and pop music.

What is your ultimate goal as a musician?

My musical goal is to just keep music as an outlet for me. I want to be able to keep on playing the drums to have fun and express my emotions.

Other than music, what are some hobbies you enjoy?

I love doing creative things, especially graphic design, photography, and writing. I also love camping and the outdoors.

What is your favorite thing about being a part of the Stages community?

My favorite thing about Stages is all the shows that I get to play with my band, The Breadheads. We’ve played some great sets at some awesome venues, and it’s always such a cool experience.

What inspired you to start playing music?

When Stages first started the band program, one of my friends said that we should both join. I thought it was a cool idea, and I chose to play the drums. I went in with no experience, but I just kept on trying to be better.

Who are your musical role models or inspirations?

Some of the musicians who inspire me are Dave Grohl, Josh Dun, and Travis Barker.

If you could collaborate with any musician, who would it be and why?

I’d love to collaborate with Twenty One Pilots because they’re my favorite band and they seem like fun people to be with.

What is your favorite thing about playing music?

I love the challenge that playing music gives me. In the band, we’re always trying new and more difficult songs, so I get to be constantly learning and constantly growing. The challenge also means that it feels really good when everything comes together.

Which of your musical achievements are you the most proud of?

One thing that I’m really proud of is the final performance with the Breadhead’s original singer, Spencer. We went all out to say goodbye to him, and I got to play some awesome (and challenging) songs like Everlong, Monkey Wrench, and Misery Business.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a musician who is just starting out?

One piece of advice I would give is to go for something, even if you think you can’t. I’ve played a couple songs with my band that I didn’t think I could get, but after a bunch of practice and hard work I was able to achieve it. There are no hard songs, some just take a little extra time to learn.

How has music changed your life?

Music was the original outlet for me to express my creativity. Now, I’m into all different kinds of art and writing, but it all started with music. It’s what told me to be creative, be different, and be determined.