In celebration of our 60th anniversary, we will feature NSMS alumni as part of our Alumni Spotlight series throughout 2020.
Which years were you at NSMS?
I was a student at NSMS from 2000-2013.
Who were your teachers?
Carina Joly, Angela Triandafillou
What is a favorite NSMS memory?
Back in 2007, I broke my right hand at school about two weeks before the annual recital. I had already been preparing a (two-handed) piece, so I thought I wasn't going to be able to perform due to the injury. However, my teacher was able to find a left hand only piece titled "Nocturne for Left Hand" by Catherine Rollin for me to quickly learn. Thanks to her, I was still able to play at the recital!
What are you doing now?
Right now, I'm working on my Master's degree in Environmental Biology at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. Although I don't play as much piano as I used to, I can still read sheet music, and I've used my music theory skills in picking up the ukulele quite quickly. I'm hoping to get back to it once I finish school and life becomes less hectic (and once I move into a place that can actually fit a piano).
What role does your education at NSMS play in your life today?
The greatest lessons I've ever learned at NSMS are as follows:
1. Start slow when learning something new.
2. You're never too old to go back and practice your basics.
3. You learn more by short daily practice, instead of one long day of cramming.
4. Piano posture is really good for desk posture, too!
Wow, these are great life lessons! We hope that you'll be able to get a piano soon.
Are you an NSMS Alum? We'd love to hear from you. Please complete this alumni connection form.
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