Monte Skelton

Biography
Teacher

Monte Skelton

When those who know Monte think of him, many ask, "What doesn't he do?" His reputation as a positive, talented, and hard working individual is seen everywhere he goes. While many in the Indiana Tri-state area know him as the voice of jazz on the radio on 91.5 FM WUEV, others know him as a talented saxophonist that is seen and heard at many events. Monte is also known in the schools as a very influential woodwind instructor who has helped many music students from the ages of 8-19 further their appreciation and love for the musical arts. "I truly believe that if the students aren't having fun with the music they're playing, they won't practice it and they won't get better. It's much harder to memorize something you don't like than it is to remember something you love," Monte says. Along with being a saxophonist, Monte also plays EWI, flute, clarinet, oboe, electric bass, percussion, trombone, and many other instruments. He has played the woodwinds in many local musicals, percussion in the University of Evansville's wind ensemble, and electric bass in the University of Evansville's jazz ensemble and pep bands.

Monte says:

I have definitely been blessed with a wonderful mother and family who has been with me every step of the way throughout my life. Even though my mom and I live under low income circumstances, we always use what we have to the best of our ability, and my mom has taught me very useful tips on not always having what we want, but wanting what we have. This has helped me to use the resources that I have to make it through life in the best way possible. I have had the wonderful opportunity to make my own CD of music that I have composed and love. My mom is truly one who deserves recognition for her hard work and endurance 24/7. Supporting someone in college while still paying for all of the house bills and utilities by oneself is a job not very many could handle, but my mom has always done everything she can to help me in every way, and for that I am eternally grateful. Thank you mom, and I love you.

I often perform by myself around the local Evansville and surrounding area, but I am also priveleged to be in a wonderful band that plays locally as well. This ensemble, named "Skelton's Montourage," is primarily made up of fellow students and alumni from the University of Evansville. I have had the opportunity to perform for many different occasions, including private parties, coffee shops, high-class restaurants, benefits, and talent competitions. In the past, I have won the most votes at Evansville ARC's "Really Big Show," where I got a standing ovation from more than a thousand onlookers for my performance of Stevie Wonder's "Superstition" on saxophone. Also in past years, I also had the wonderful opportunity to play at a private party of Toyota's former Indiana plant president, as well as representing Evansville in Little Rock, Arkansas at a large convention at the Peabody Hotel.