Our last two alumni highlights featured athletes: SMU volleyball player Natalia Newsome and Crossfit athlete (and Arlington High coach) Chris Reil. This month, we’re highlighting a professional drummer.
Aaron ‘AC’ Capers graduated from Bowie High School in 2005 and has turned his passion for drumming into a successful musical career. A member of the Dallas Mavericks Drumline and multiple bands, he says he’d love to see you at one of his shows. We caught up with AC and asked him a few questions.
〉What is one of your favorite memories from your time in Arlington ISD?
Considering one of my jobs now is drumline entertainment, one of the more fun memories I had was opening up the movie theater and ice skating rink and parading through the Parks Mall.
〉Was there a teacher, coach or other staff member who made a lasting impact on you? Could you tell us about that?
Dustin Schulze was my drumline technician and lessons teacher. He had the most profound impact on my high school experience. As far as actual AISD employees go, Mrs. Leon, my English teacher, always managed to make every class a memorable experience. And Mr. Bellville, my percussion director, helped me grow from a stubborn child to the professional I am.
〉Tell us about your journey since graduating. What are you doing now, and what accomplishment are you most proud of?
Since graduating, I gave college a try and realized I just really like drumming and performing. So I dropped out and dedicated my life to finding a way to fund that passion until that passion paid me to live. I now teach private lessons across Mansfield ISD and work as a working percussionist with a couple bands and a drumline entertainment company called Dynamic Rhythm Entertainment, as well as the Dallas Mavericks Drumline.
〉What advice would you give to current Arlington ISD students about pursuing their goals?
Be stubborn with your goals, and formulate a plan to making it happen. Don’t let your situation define what you CAN do with the love YOU have.
〉Is there anything else you would like to share?
If you would like to know more about what I do, please visit my website ACthatDrummer.net or reach out @ACthatDrummer on all social media platforms. I hope to catch you at a show sometime!