Music
I notice music everywhere.
Music has been a part of my life since I can remember. I learned to play the cello at the age of eight. And, by my junior year of high school, I had taught myself the ukulele, guitar and piano.
Below are some of my cello performances or recordings that I have done over the years.
Fond Recollections, David Popper
Popper’s Fond Recollections, despite its slower tempo and relatively simple notes, it is the most challenging piece I’ve ever played. Having to focus so closely on technique and tone through learning it, I had to truly “feel” the music. Although not what I am used to, I gained technical skill, the ability to listen to myself for mistakes, and learned to play slower pieces more passionately.
Bouree, W.H. Squire
I love performing Squire’s Bouree because it is exciting. It’s flashy sound, fast moving notes, and wide range of dynamics, with each embellishment I can feel my bow dancing across the strings. I find that each individual musician is able to add their own special touch to this piece, which makes it particularly fun and challenging to learn and even more exhilarating to perform.
Hungarian Rhapsody, David Popper
Some would say that Hungarian Rhapsody is a “right of passage” for cellists. Since it took me an entire year to get it almost perfect, I’d say I agree. David Popper’s piece was played as the grande finale at my 2019 solo recital.
Bach Suite No. 1 - Prelude
This piece is a staple for cellists. While it’s not all that difficult to master, it is unique for creating the perfect platform for individual expression.
The Black Capsule
Sometimes hanging out with your parents has hidden bonuses. During a tagalong trip to the recording studio to witness my Dad’s rock band record their debut album, I came away with much more than a lesson on music production. First, I got to meet Matt Noble (he’s produced songs for Rihanna!). Then, when the band said they needed a backup vocal, but didn’t have a singer on hand, I was at the right place at the right time. I’m no trained vocalist, but I do have perfect pitch, and I can make up harmonies on the spot. And, while I had never heard the songs before, suddenly I found myself in the booth, mic’d up, recording backups for the entire album. The album’s on Spotify so…I’m gonna say it was a success.
RiverArts Music Tour
It was three minutes before showtime and I decided to try something I’d never done before. Live on stage. We were at the RiverArts Music Festival in 2018 and I was about to perform with a group I’d assembled myself. I’d written everyone’s parts to AJR’s hit song, “Sober Up.” Right before stage time I realized, to my horror, that our pop song performance was missing pop. Next thing you know, I’m disconnecting the bass drum from the drum set, moving it in front of my stool and letting my group know that I’d be playing the bass drum and my cello at the same time. Sure, it was far from perfect. But it did make for a great story.
All - State Orchestra
Each year, I work on perfecting pieces of high difficulty levels. It’s all for the honor of performing with the Area All-State Orchestra. I believe being accepted into this exclusive group is one of my greatest achievements. And I’m reminded every year of how hard work pays off.
During my high school career, I’ve written arrangements for duets and group performances, from the national anthem to the original arrangements to my favorite songs. During my senior year, I earned the privilege of first chair in the DFHS Orchestra.
Additional Accolades
All State Orchestra, 2018, 2019
All County Orchestra, 2015, 2016, 2017
Dobbs Ferry High School Orchestra, First Chair
NYSSMA
HIGH SCHOOL SCORES
2019 – LVL 6 – 99
2018 – LVL 5 – 100
2017 – LVL 5 – 97
2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016: (ALL SCORES 27 OR 28/28 LVL 2,3, AND 4)