As Executive Director of the Young Artists Conservatory of Music, Eric Woodcock brings a combination of educational leadership, musical experience, and a deep commitment to helping young people thrive through music.
Eric studied music education and trombone performance at San José State University, where he studied under Tom Hornig and Ed Harris. During his collegiate career, he performed with SFSYO under the direction of Donato Cabrera and studied trombone with San Francisco Symphony Principal Trombonist Timothy Higgins. He was also selected as a California Music Project Fellow, providing music education support and expertise to underserved public schools throughout Silicon Valley.
Eric’s journey with the Young Artists Conservatory of Music began in 2017. As Operations Coordinator, Music Theory Instructor, and pit orchestra conductor for Solano Youth Theatre, he supported the organization’s daily operations while working directly with young musicians in classrooms, rehearsals, and theatrical productions. This multifaceted experience gave him an enduring appreciation for the many people and systems required to create meaningful arts opportunities for students.
Before returning to YACM as Executive Director, Eric served as Director of Bands at Diablo View Middle School, where he developed a student-centered music program grounded in musical excellence, inclusion, and social-emotional learning. Beyond the classroom, he founded the school’s Band Boosters organization, established “Beethoven’s 14th,” an after-school music tutoring program, and served as chair of both the Visual and Performing Arts Department and the school’s MTSS committee.
Throughout his work, Eric has prioritized collaboration with students, families, educators, and community partners to create vibrant and accessible music programs that extend beyond the classroom. In recognition of his leadership and contributions to the school community, he was selected to represent Diablo View Middle School when it was honored as a California Distinguished School in 2024.
In his private teaching, Eric's approach centers on student agency, creativity, collaboration, and social-emotional growth while maintaining high standards of musicianship. Across each of his roles, he remains committed to expanding access to high-quality music education and helping young artists develop the confidence, skills, and sense of belonging they need to succeed.
