Billy McDonald, a senior at Bethel Park High School, plays the bass guitar, drum set, and percussion in the school’s drumline. He has participated in many musical programs in our school including: drumline (quads), percussion ensemble, pit orchestra, jazz workshop, symphonic band, jazz ensemble, and music technology.

When asked if he hoped to turn music into a career some day, Billy responded, “Yes, turning my passion into a professional career is a goal of mine, it just feels like the right thing to do.”

Specifically, he hopes to work in the music tech field; however, he said, “If I’m really dreaming, I’ll be on stage.”

Billy has been involved in music since age eight or nine.

“In third grade I was eager to join band class the next year to play saxophone, but I tried out percussion and never ended up touching a saxophone.”

McDonald auditioned for PMEA Honors Jazz and placed 1st in bass, and has also received music scholarships from Duquesne University.

When asked who inspires his music, Billy said, “I get inspiration from everything I listen to, but as far as people go, the few off the top of my head are Victor Wooten, Marcus Miller, and Les Claypool.”

Billy hopes to attend Duquesne University in the fall for a major in music technology.

If you are a serious musician and would like to be featured as Musician of the Week, email [email protected] for more information.