First Sergeant Pedro F. Quiñones is a native of Peñuelas, Puerto Rico and is the first Hispanic-American to be assigned as the Director of the SHAPE International Band. He entered the Puerto Rico Army National Guard in April 1985 and then transferred to the Regular Army in May 1987. He has over 30 years experience directing, leading and participating in musical organizations to include jazz ensembles, salsa-Latin bands, rock bands, concert bands, and ceremonial units. His military assignments include 410th Military Police Company; 411th Military Police Company; 1st Calvary Division Military Police Company; the 1st Calvary Division Band, Fort Hood, TX; the 36th Army Band, Fort Huachuca, AZ; the Second Infantry Division Band, Camp Red Cloud, Republic of Korea; The Army Ground Forces Band, Fort McPherson, GA; and The United States Army Japan Band, Camp Zama, Japan.

First Sergeant Quiñones holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems from Saint Leo University, Florida and is currently working on a Masters Degree in Computer Information Systems. He maintains the C1 additional skill identifier on the bass guitar signifying musical excellence. First Sergeant Quiñones is also a great trumpet player, an instrument which he has played since childhood.

His military education includes the Primary Leadership Development Course, Basic and Advanced Army Non-Commissioned Officers Course, First Sergeant Course, and the Unit Antiterrorism Advisor Course.

First Sergeant Quiñones' awards include three Meritorious Service Medals, five Army Commendation Medals, and two Army Achievement Medals.