SF Camerata

Evan DePaolo approaches percussion as both a craft and a language, connecting motion,
sound, and emotion. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s of Music in Percussion Performance at
the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, where he studies with Jacob Nissly, principal
percussionist of the San Francisco Symphony. Before attending SFCM, Evan studied at the
University of Denver with Michael Van Wirt, section percussionist of the Colorado Symphony.
In 2024, Evan won the top prize at the Donald Runnicles Scholarship Competition, sponsored by
the Grand Teton Music Festival, and received a generous scholarship. A native of Casper,
Wyoming, he developed his love for percussion through his great uncle Eric, who introduced him
to percussion and taught him his first lessons. He was selected for the All-Northwest Band,
served as timpanist for the 2024 Wyoming All-State Orchestra, and performed in the Wyoming
All-State Band in both 2022 and 2023. Evan is deeply grateful to his early mentors, including
Ryan Bell and Dr. Eugenie Burkett, for inspiring his dedication to music