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Time:

Wednesday
December, 16, 2026
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM

Location:

W196

Category

Middle School Jazz Ensemble

Conductor

Conductor Thumb
Vanessa Lopez

Performer Details

Performer Bio Synopsis

Ensor Middle School is located in the rapidly growing suburb community outside of El Paso, Texas. The community is largely Hispanic, representing nearly 89-90% of the population and is known for its strong family-oriented environment. Ensor is part of the Socorro Independent School District and provides education for students in grades 6-8. Ensor is an "A" rated campus from the Texas Education Agency ranking in the top 30% of public schools in Texas. Ensor Middle School offers a variety of fine arts opportunities including band, choir, orchestra and theater. The Jazz Ensemble has been part of the band program since its initiation in 2000 and has participated in the SISD Jazz Festival, consistently receiving superior ratings and various outstanding section and solo awards. They are also ranked in the top 4 ensembles at the Hanks High School Jazz Festival (El Paso, TX and surrounding areas) every year. The campus benefits from outstanding administrative leadership and strong parental involvement, which strengthens student success and the overall school culture. Together, the supportive Horizon City community and the commitment of Ensor Middle School's staff and families provide students with a high-quality educational experience focused on academic excellence, creativity and community engagement.

John Ensor Middle School

Conductor's Bio

Vanessa Lopez is the Director of Bands at John Ensor Middle School in Socorro ISD located in Horizon City, Texas and currently in her twenty-first year of teaching. Mrs. Lopez began her teaching career at Ensor Middle School, first as a student teacher and a year later became the Assistant Band Director in 2005 for three years. She then took the head director position at Walter Clarke Middle School in El Paso for eleven years before returning to Ensor in her current position. Under her direction, her bands have consistently received Sweepstakes awards at Pre-UIL and UIL Concert Band Evaluations. Her Jazz Ensembles have also earned superior ratings at the Socorro ISD Jazz Festival, the Hanks Jazz Festival in El Paso and rank in the top 4 consistently. Prior to teaching, Mrs. Lopez received her Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of Nevada Las Vegas. While there, Mrs. Lopez was a member of the wind ensemble and served as drum major of the UNLV marching band. Mrs. Lopez currently lives in Horizon City, Texas with her husband Stephen and her two children Ethan and Alina.

Additional Directors

Additional Conductor Image

Jonah Rayas

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