Progressions Cello Instructor Rayden Vaughan Montes is currently studying cello performance at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with Dr. Stefan Kartman. He was born and raised in El Paso, Texas, where he began studying cello at age 10. He had a patent love for performing at a young age; it was not uncommon to find him playing for the class when the curriculum allowed it during his primary and secondary education years.

After moving to Milwaukee in 2015, Rayden attended Milwaukee High School of the Arts as a music major. Soon after, he began arranging, composing, recording, and producing his own music. His first composition was performed at a statewide conference in front of hundreds of students and teachers, receiving high praise by vote and standing ovation. He then was asked to write original music for theatrical productions and films and has plans to continue arranging and composing after completing his cello studies.

Rayden graduated from Milwaukee High School of the Arts and The Cello Institute of Milwaukee in 2018. After graduation, he has enjoyed studying and performing at UW-Milwaukee with peers and colleagues in various chamber and large ensembles. He has also played in symphony and pit orchestras across the state and has been hired for private events throughout Wisconsin as a soloist and as a member of various groups.

Rayden is very excited to begin his first year of teaching as Progressions Cello Instructor. He hopes to share the gift of music with his students as the teachers in his life have so generously shared with him.