By: Natalia Cruz

   At TPA, students had the unique opportunity to learn Spanish through music, thanks to visiting educator and musician Javier. Originally from Spain, he combined his love for language and melody to create an engaging classroom experience.

   With a Master’s in Music Pedagogy, he applied his research in Dr. Cardoso’s Spanish class, focusing on teaching Spanish through music—a method he has refined since moving to Seattle. With years of experience in early education, he helped students improve pronunciation through musical exercises. One major success was guiding them in mastering the difficult double ‘R’ sound. Javier shared, “Ver a los alumnos superar estos desafíos a través de la música fue, sin duda, una de las mayores satisfacciones de mi trayectoria” (“Watching students overcome these challenges through music was, without a doubt, one of the greatest satisfactions of my career”).

   Beyond academics, Javier was impressed by TPA’s values and discipline. He recognized a strong emphasis on respect and moral principles, similar to his own educational upbringing in Spain.

   A highlight of his time at TPA was performing for the entire school. As an active musician under the project Javier de Mabel, he is no stranger to the stage, but this experience felt special. “Cuando interpreté mis canciones frente a toda la escuela, fue una experiencia muy especial. Todos los alumnos estaban expectantes, concentrados y en silencio, escuchando atentamente. Esa actitud es algo por lo que siempre estaré profundamente agradecido” (“When I performed my songs in front of the entire school, it was a very special experience. All the students were expectant, focused, and silent, listening attentively. That attitude is something for which I will always be deeply grateful”). The students’ enthusiasm and heartfelt applause made the event unforgettable.

   Music has been a lifelong passion for Javier, as it is deeply rooted in his family’s history. With a grandfather who played trumpet and drums, a father who instilled a love for music, and a brother who mastered the accordion, his musical journey began early. Studying jazz at the Conservatorio Superior de Música de Navarra solidified his dedication.

   For Javier, music is more than a profession—it’s a way of life. Through teaching, composing, and performing, he continues to inspire those around him, demonstrating how music has the power to educate, connect, and transform lives.