TIMOTHY SORIANO

In the heart of San Antonio, Timothy Soriano emerges as a rhythmic prodigy, weaving a melodic tale that began amidst the clangor of kitchen pots and pans to the vibrant beats of the Fiesta parade. His musical odyssey, deeply rooted in familial rhythms, paints a vivid portrait of an artist whose journey defies convention. At the tender age of 5, Tim's symphony with music commenced on his grandmother's kitchen floor, where Tejano hits became the first notes in his repertoire. By 7, he was already a regular at St. Timothy church on the Westside, orchestrating beats that echoed through the Sunday masses.

Tim's musical education took an unconventional turn at St. Martin Hall, just across from Our Lady of the Lake University. Here, under the guidance of Sr. Ana Rose Bezner and Sr. Casilda, he delved into the intricacies of basic music theory on the violin, ear training, and the art of improvisation. A dual virtuoso on the violin and drums, Tim found solace in the harmonies of classical and jazz music. High school brought an unexpected drumming stint for Tim, as his parents persuaded the West Campus band director to let him audition for the South San Antonio West Campus Mighty Cougar band at 14. The kitchen floor prodigy transformed into the starting snare player, leaving an indelible mark on the marching band until junior year.

The flood of 2007 disrupted the beat, closing West Campus HS and merging students with their East Campus rivals. Undeterred, Tim and his brother Kevin tried their luck at the South San Drum-line, emerging as the sole percussionists from West Campus. Tim's prowess reached new heights as he clinched a state title with the South San Antonio Extreme Drum line during his last two years of high school. Tim's thirst for musical exploration continued in college, where an unexpected revelation unfolded during his mother's jazz choir performance at Our Lady of the Lake University.

Spotting an absence of percussion, he approached Dr. John Carol, director of the Jazz band, with a bold request: "Let's give it a shot." Thus, Tim's senior year became a symphony with the OLLU collegiate Jazz combo, adding vibrant "color" to the ensemble. Post-graduation, Tim's academic pursuits at OLLU converged with his musical passion. From the chapel Choir to the jazz combo, Pep band, and piano lessons, his repertoire expanded under the tutelage of Joe Caploe. Jazz Afro fusion and odd time numbers presented challenges, but Tim, undaunted, excelled, leaving an indelible mark on OLLU's musical tapestry.

In his final collegiate act, Tim joined the ranks of 24th St under the stewardship of Gilbert Linscott and Ryan Hollander. The cover band skyrocketed in success after a spirited performance at the Battle of Flowers parade during San Antonio Fiesta in 2016, until its end in 2020.

Timothy Soriano, the maestro of alternative beats, has stitched together a sonic tapestry that transcends generations, from kitchen floor rhythms to the grand stage of Fiesta. His unconventional music journey to this moment, serves as a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in paving out a unique musical legacy in the heart of San Antonio.

To be continued…