Xander Buckhalter
La Grange Park
Summary
Dynamic percussionist with experience at Sinfonia da Camera, adept at rapid music preparation and ensemble collaboration. Proven ability to excel under pressure, demonstrated through performances of complex orchestral works. Strong interpersonal communication skills enhance customer service in diverse environments, including food service.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Section Percussionist
Sinfonia da Camera
Champaign-Urbana
02.2026 - 04.2026
- Performed advanced orchestral percussion repertoire across intensive rehearsal and concert schedules
- Prepared and learned professional-level percussion parts within short rehearsal timelines
- Performed works including Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No. 3 and Piano Concerto No. 3, Copland’s Appalachian Spring, and Gershwin’s An American in Paris
Section Percussionist
Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra
Champaign
03.2026 - 03.2026
- Performed orchestral percussion parts for rehearsals and live concert performances
- Performed repertoire including Bernstein’s Symphonic Dances from West Side Story and Tower’s Fanfare for the Uncommon Woman
- Demonstrated quick preparation and adaptability in professional ensemble settings
Front of House Worker
Panda Express
Countryside
06.2024 - 08.2025
- Assisted customers through in-store, online, and drive-thru order service in a fast-paced environment
- Operated cash register accurately and efficiently while maintaining strong customer service standards
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of dining areas, kitchen spaces, parking lot, and exterior areas
- Completed daily temperature logs and EcoSure sanitation checklists to ensure safe food preparation and storage practices
- Promoted Panda Rewards and highlighted new menu items to enhance customer engagement
- Facilitated customer donations, contributing over $1,000 to Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
Education
Bachelor of Music - Percussion Performance
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Urbana-Champaign, IL05-2028
Skills
- Orchestral performance
- Sheet music interpretation
- Ensemble collaboration
- Ability to Learn Music Quickly
- Studio recording experience
- Customer Service
- Conflict Resolution
- Fast Problem Solving
- Time Management
- Team Collaboration
- Adaptability under pressure
- Food Service Operations
- Cash Register Operation
- Interpersonal Communication
Extracurricular Activities
Phi Delta Theta, Illinois Eta Chapter, Phikeia Educator, 2025-2026 University of Illinois Wind Symphony, 2024–2026 University of Illinois Jazz Ensemble, 2025-2026 Ron Bridgewater Jazz Combo (University of Illinois), 2024-2025 University of Illinois Percussion Ensemble, 2024-2026 Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras, 2022–2024
Volunteer Experience
Feed My Starving Children, Volunteer, Approximately 20 hours
Locations
- La Grange Park, IL
- Champaign-Urbana, IL
Languages
English
Full Professional
Spanish
Limited
Certification
- ServSafe Food Handlers's Certification
Timeline
Section Percussionist
Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra
03.2026 - 03.2026
Section Percussionist
Sinfonia da Camera
02.2026 - 04.2026
Front of House Worker
Panda Express
06.2024 - 08.2025
Bachelor of Music - Percussion Performance
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign