However, the secret to making an ensemble work is not held simply in talent or focus, according to Wachs. There are far more important things.

“Inspiration,” he said. “And chemistry.”

Wachs points out that, especially in the professional world, inspiration can be hard thing to find.

“One of the key things they have to learn is that there is no rhyme or reason. You try to shelter them from that.” he said. “They’re like your children. You still have to give them the confidence.”

And that’s why Wachs travels halfway around the world, mostly on his own dime. That’s why he continues to fight out in the professional world. It’s a guide for how he runs things at Chapman. It allows him to provide students with the tools they need to make it without experiencing the harsh realities just yet.

“It’s cool that he still does things on the side because he’s able to bring those experiences back to us and help us grow,” said Harmon.
When Wachs has a chance to just sit back and enjoy music, he has special place in his heart for French music.

“When it’s French it somehow speaks to me quite strongly,” he said. “I spent many, many years there in my childhood, so French is in my ear.”
For the most part, though, he leaves music at work. He tries to find ways to use his free time that get him away from the job, with the exception of an occasional concert.