Instrument/Department: Expressive Arts - Music Therapy (Saxophone)
Joined Hochstein faculty in: 2024
Originally from Littleton, Colorado, Greg completed his music therapy coursework at the University of Kansas in 2021 where he played in the Symphonic Band, Marching Jayhawks, and the esteemed KU Basketball Band. After finishing his music therapy internship at The Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters and Sentara Neurology Center in Norfolk, Virginia, Greg moved to Rochester in March of 2022.
Greg became a board-certified music therapist and started his work as an Assistant Activities Director in a local eldercare facility. During his two years in Activities, Greg found a passion for working with older adults and supporting their overall quality of life through music and enriching experiences.
Greg joins Hochstein excited to formally work as a music therapist and challenge himself with new opportunities. In his free time, Greg enjoys cheering on his Alma Mater (Rock Chalk!), playing video games with his friends, and spending time with his fiancée (a music therapist also!) and their two cats, Freddie and Rosie.
More About Greg dela Cruz
Hometown: Littleton, Colorado
Favorite things to do in Rochester area: Rochester is rich with beautiful parks, hiking trails, and festivals! In the summer, I love being outdoors and exploring what the city has to offer.
When I’m not at Hochstein, you can find me: At home with my fiancée and our two cats, Freddie and Rosie.
My favorite local restaurant: Magnolia’s Deli and Cafe on Park Avenue. My order is the Park Ave sandwich with a side of French Onion Soup!
Favorite places to travel: I love traveling home to visit family in Colorado or to Lawrence, Kansas for a basketball game in Allen Fieldhouse!
Favorite style of music: I love exploring new artists and genres of music, but at the end of the day, I always come back to Classic Rock from the ‘60s and ‘70s. Some of my favorite bands include Creedence Clearwater Revival, The Beatles, and, my all-time favorite, The Rolling Stones. My favorite song from them, “Following the River,” blends together rock and roll, blues, and gospel into one of the most beautiful songs ever made!
What people would be surprised to know about me: I love to cook! I am Filipino, so growing up my dad taught me how to make all kinds of Filipino dishes including pancit, chicken adobo, and my personal favorite: Lumpia (also known as Filipino eggrolls)!