CCM Studio Production Alum, Vince Casas, on the Ascent with Band Theory of Flight

Published: April 13, 2021

The Audio Program at Greenville College first drew 2004 grad and now lead guitarist for Theory of Flight, Vince Casas, from his home in California to the plains of Illinois. Casas began his freshman year at GC with a goal and worked hard toward becoming the best musician he could over the next four years. "When I look back and realize that I was one of the worst musicians when I arrived at GC with no knowledge of audio production, but then went on to receive my first full-time studio job three months after graduation, and now I teach at an elite production college in Las Vegas only five years later, it's a humbling experience," explains Casas. "I am thankful that GC's admissions department reached out to me, and that GC Professors developed me."

Casas is a member of the rising rock sextet, Theory of Flight (TOF) out of Las Vegas. The band is captivating audiences across the country with their clever lyrics and electrifying melodies. By the name of their band and the title of their recently released album Within Reach, it is clear TOF is after something grand. In the midst of it all, Casas remains aware of God's faithfulness in his life. " I will say that God's plan has been full of surprises. I would have never guessed that I would be teaching on a campus full-time, online part-time, and still manage to be on the road performing on the weekends. I am in awe of God's faithfulness. It has taken years to prepare for these moments and now they just don't stop coming," says Casas.

"I always tell my students and my friends about how amazing my college experience was at GC. I was in several bands and learned so much about myself in the process. If it wasn't for the isolated, yet modern culture of music at GC I would not have had the focus needed to gain the tools and skills necessary in the real market," explains Casas. "GC is the ultimate experience in student development. Some colleges focus on being expedient, but do not provide the time it takes to develop your skills in a safe and supportive environment. When you survive the training at GC with brilliant colors, then the real world will be a challenge you embrace knowing very well you have a leg up on the competition."

The road to success has been a humbling and interesting one for Casas as he worked as a night stock boy at a grocery store, a camera man for the National Rodeo Finals and a staff member for the Blue Man Group to help fund his song writing seasons. But through it all, he has continued to keep his eye on that original goal he had as a freshman at GC. Today, Casas is celebrating that success and thanks the Greenville College faculty, staff and community that invested in him for the "boost" along the way, "GC is an amazing community that is the sole reason that I am who I am today."

For more information about the new Recording Industry major, formerly known as Studio Production, or the CCM program email media@greenville.edu.

Go to www.theoryofflightmusic.com for more info about Vince Casas and TOF.