Fullerton's very own "Music Man"

As a child growing up in nearby Placentia, Tebay knew he was born to have some type of career that revolved around music. 

He felt called specifically to be a choir instructor when he was seven-years-old, an age when most children dream of being more generic things like movie-stars, zoo-keepers, and ballerinas.     

In the second grade Tebay participated in a choir group, and it was through this experience he realized how much he loved it.

 He resolved that someday he would become a choir teacher. But Tebay was interested in being a inspiring, dynamic instructor with a comprehensive knowledge of music. 

Tebay continued to take choir every year from grade-school all the way until he graduated from Valencia High School. During these years he also learned to play the piano and guitar. 

He continued his musical education by attending Fullerton College, as well as Biola University, Long Beach and Cal State Fullerton where he completed his Bachelor's degree in 1980 and later went on to receive his Masters. 

With such an extensive education, Tebay was able to get hired as choir instructor at El Dorado High School immediately after he graduated. Tebay would stay there a total of five years before landing his current post at FC, a position he has held for 25 years now. 

Besides becoming Chairman of the Music department, Tebay has also taught many classes besides choir. He has taught a history of rock n' roll class, performing song and dance together, and has even done personal voice coaching.

Because of his musical background, Tebay has developed a varied musical taste, enjoying many different genres all the way from rock n' roll to classical. 

Tebay feels that students are the reason to keep teaching. Watching as they grow in their performances and seeing them learn to understand and grasp the concepts is what allows him to continue his work. 

Understanding what does and doesn't work allows him to instruct future students better. 

Tebay says his students aren't the only ones learning, they often teach him new things as well. Just one of the many rewards he has received by living a life encompassed in music.