Student Musicians find Inspiration, Performance Opportunities Inside and Outside of School
Source/Author: Rachel Barrett, Director of Marketing and Communications
September 03, 2021
The Shorecrest experience gives students the opportunity to pursue their interests both formally and informally. For student musicians, that could mean creating an independent study like Wade LeCain ‘22 did, or sharing an original song during advisory like Mila Salamone ‘22.
“Students who are interested in music have opportunities to participate in band starting in Middle School, then in Upper School we offer electives like Music Theory, Recording Arts, Guitar, and Independent Study opportunities. More than coursework, I think the relationships between teachers and students support our student musicians in continuing to discover and pursue their interests and passions,” says Co-Chair of US Performing Arts and Band Director Ethan Updike.
Wade, a classically trained guitarist, has created an Independent Study in Classical Guitar and aspires to continue his musical training in college. Over the summer, he participated in an intensive program at the Eastman School of Music at the University of Rochester. Wade has taken advantage of a number of music electives while in the Upper School, including Music Theory, Recording Arts, and two Independent Study courses. He was recently awarded a Young Artist Showcase scholarship by St. Boniface Episcopal Church.
Mila, a singer-songwriter, finds support for her craft through Advisory, as well as English courses. “Mr. Seymour has always appreciated my writing and currently sponsors one of the clubs I run (the Creative Writing Club). Mr. McDonough encouraged me to play one of my first songs on the guitar in front of my entire tenth grade advisory.”
Both students have upcoming opportunities outside of school to showcase their talents. Mila will perform at The Cordova Inn (253 2nd Ave. N) Friday, September 3 at 7pm. Wade will be featured in a livestreamed guitar recital performing works by Mozart, Sor, Arabe, Tarrega, and Debussy on Sunday, September 5 at 5pm. View the livestream here.
