Involvements in Arts: I have been singing since 1st grade, so around 13 years. I have been in choir for 11 years. I have sang and performed for a few different private vocal coaches over the years. More recently though, I do everything drama related here at Knoch Highschool, and train at Pittsburgh CLO in the city. There, I also audition for anything that presents itself, and their summer musical season!
Greatest Musical Achievement: My greatest musical achievement was auditioning for the Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera’s Professional Development Program. I received a full scholarship ($3000) to train with some of the best actors and actresses my age in the area! There I take private voice and advanced acting, and I also advanced into the intermediate ballet, jazz, and tap classes. I also get to work with directors of musical theater at the top colleges from all over the country.
Musical/Performing Goals: Right now, my main priority in my career as an artist and student is getting accepted into college! It is a milestone in most actors journeys, as it is a much more rigorous process than the average student. It involves firstly getting accepted into a college, submitting a prescreen (virtual audition), getting invited to an in-person audition, and THEN getting accepted into a college based off of talent.
Artist/Role Model: I look up to the musician Jacob Collier. He is a nationally renowned, 6 time Grammy winner musician, who is commonly referred to as one of the best musicians of the generation. His ability to work outside of the rules and limitations set in place by music laws have always baffled my mind, and inspired me to be confident in my ability’s as an actor, and has helped me to realize that EVERY rule is meant to be broken. He constantly sets new, and unimaginable boundaries that could only have been described as unobtainable to most musicians. And that is exactly what I want for myself. I urge all of you to listen to his 4 volume “Djesse” album.
My Favorite Song: I currently have 2 favorite songs and can’t decide between either, so here are both! Bridge over Troubled Water is a song by Jacob Collier featuring John Legend, Tori Kelly and a fan who sent in a recording of her singing the opening to the song, and this segment was included in the actual song! This song, the vocal layering, chord progression and structure, and lyrics take you to a place that you could only dream of. It is a beautiful melody, that can be listened to over and over again. I also chose Forever by Noah Kahan, it’s a beautiful song that just fills you with joy, and another one of those songs that you can listen to repeatedly.
What Sparked my Interest: I have been singing for what feels like my whole life, and have done some musicals here and there growing up, but what really sparked my interest were my shows right here at Knoch. Seeing the passion, dedication, and care of upperclassman and out director, Ms. Bronder, inspired me to want to add to the magic of the show. Throughout these shows I heavily involved myself in the arts here at Knoch and outside of school as-well, which grew my love for performing even more. I owe my passion for Musical Theater to Knoch, and Ms. Bronder.
Future Plans: Knoch starts our rehearsals this week for Careless People: A Great Gatsby! Please come see our show, and support our arts on Nov. 22nd and 23rd!
Something To Leave With: Be confident in your abilities. Whether you’re a musician, athlete, or student, never compare yourself to that of others. Take every single opportunity that presents itself, because you only get one opportunity to do so.
