What was your experience like participating in Spotlight from auditions to master classes?
The Spotlight Awards was a once in a lifetime opportunity for me to learn and perform beside other students deeply passionate about their art forms. At each step of the competition there was a supportive environment, and at the same time embodied the importance of excellence. It was extremely helpful to participate in the master class with Allan Pasqua beside three fine pianists, and the process of auditioning helped me in performing and auditioning in future situations.

What was it like performing on the stage of the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion?
As I stepped onto the stage of the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion my heart was pounding and my body was tingling. As I played the first notes on the piano my mind returned to a wonderful space, and I was completely content and happy connecting with the other musicians and the audience. It was exciting and incredible and made me feel like anything really is possible if you put your mind to it.

What is your favorite thing about performing or studying your art form?
Jazz allows me to discover new things about others and myself. Improvisation within Jazz provides the template that I can search for those new things, improve, and develop them, as a solo within the music is happening. The music allows me to connect to others, which is the most important part of any art form.

Who is your favorite singer/dancer/performer/composer, etc. and why?
Right now my biggest influence is Tamir Hendelman, the amazing pianist, arranger, composer, and much more, the teacher who I have had the great privilege of studying with for the past years. His musical knowledge paired with his seemingly endless creative energy is inspiring and gets me excited about music.

Who has been your biggest fan and has given you the most support?
My mom, dad, and two younger sisters have been unquestionably my biggest supporters and fans. They have encouraged me to be the best musician and person I can be, and I am grateful to be so close to them and trust them.

What other skills or talents do you have that other people may not know about you?
I suppose my songwriting and singing skills most people do not know about. I enjoy writing and playing my own songs, into which I try to incorporate jazz, pop, rock, and hip hop. I also can do some pretty mean coin tricks.

Are there any setbacks that you have overcome which have challenged you to be a better artist?
It has always been a balancing act to continue my academic studies and develop other interests at a high level, while pursuing jazz piano. While it is a constant struggle, it is important that I remain connected to a scholarly community beyond my art form so I can portray an understanding of many aspects of the world through music.

What qualities do you believe are your biggest strengths?
I'd like to think I communicate well with others who I am playing with, as well as portray the message of the music to the audience. I hope to show the audience how happy jazz makes me, and hope to inspire similar feelings.

What are your dreams/goals in life?
Throughout my years of study at the college level, I plan to make connections with top musicians and leaders in other areas of performing arts and entertainment, and establish myself as a musical presence among my generation?s upcoming artists. One day, I will start my own organization to combat social problems through music, where I can collaborate with other artists on behalf of the community.

What are your plans after high school?
I will be attending New England Conservatory, in Boston, Massachusetts. I hope to develop the skills that I will need to realize the musical and humanitarian projects that I feel passionate about and that will hopefully inspire others to connect to one another.