His bandmates call him “the GOAT” (“Greatest of All Time”), but Chaffey High School Senior Sebastian Calvillo simply wants to play his drums the best he can. Who knows … maybe, he’ll catch the attention of his music idol, rocker James Hetfield.

“I was 12 years old, and Metallica got me hooked,” Sebastian said with a big smile, his black T-shirt adorned with the logo of his second favorite band. His favorite? The Chaffey High Jazz Band, which has become a huge part of his life as a legally blind student with a gift for music.

“I want to stay here 35,000 years, with everyone in this room,” Sebastian said as the band prepared to rehearse for a Dec. 15 holiday show in Ontario.

While jazz and heavy metal might seem worlds apart, Sebastian skills as a drummer provide a natural backbeat for both.

“He has a great ear for music,” said band director Greg Andrews. With the help of an incredible support system– including student aide Kristine Munoz, his drumming partners Adriel Medina Ramirez and Omar Enciso, and a legion of friends and teachers – Sebastian capably navigates high school in good time.

His Jazz Bandmates describe their drummer as never missing a beat. “He’s the greatest,” they shouted back. “The GOAT … the greatest of all time!” – Contributed by Chaffey Joint Union High School District