Dr. William Doyle is a professor of music and adviser for a study abroad program.

Where are you from?

I grew up in Rhode Island and went to school in Boston. In 1985, I came to the San Francisco Bay area. In 1986, I went to USC for my doctorate. It was weird because as soon as I went on to the campus, I knew it would be where I would end up.

Why did you decide to teach?

I was inspired by so many music teachers who I had. I originally went to college to become a marine zoologist.

Where have you traveled in the world?

I have been everywhere in the U.S. except for North Dakota, and to more than 40 countries.

The regions I’ve visited the most are Europe and the South Pacific. This summer I’m going to Africa, then Japan.

Where have you not yet visited, but would like to go?

There are a lot of places; eventually, I want to go to Indonesia. I would like to go everywhere, even Antartica. If there’s music or rock climbing, I want to go there.

Where are your favorite locations to visit?

You know, it’s hard to pick. There are so many places and they’re all so different. Maybe Australia, or Austria and Italy for the study abroad.

What are some of your most memorable moments?

In the year 2001, when we brought the South Bay Orchestra to play in Vienna and Prague, and to hear my music being played in the same halls as Mozart.

Who are your favorite musical artists?

Pat Metheny, almost anything Brazilian or Igor Stravinsky. It’s a pretty eclectic group. U2 and Sting would also have to be on this list.

What is most rewarding about teaching?

Watching the students grow during the study abroad trips. The students’ experiences go from what they never used to do, to something they have just done.

All these things become possible that aren’t in a normal classroom.

Any parting words?

One thing I always tell my students is that you’ve got to get out of L.A. and see the world; and Las Vegas does not count.