I became interested in playing jazz in my sophomore year of high school. In exploring different parts of the vibrant Los Angeles music scene, I was struck by the intricacy and beauty of jazz. I was enraptured by the passion flowing out of musicians playing jazz, and the creativity they were allowed to have on stage, a stark contrast from the world of classical music. I was able to pick up the bass at my school, going to an arts conservatory, providing me with plenty of opportunities. Not long after picking up the instrument, I found myself in love with not only the music but the community brought forth through jazz. I have found myself consistently playing at a multitude of venues across Los Angeles, with various sets of players, and always having different experiences. I have fallen in love with the thrill of playing jazz and the community that surrounds it. I would love to continue to learn more about music going forward. I plan to pursue jazz performance in college. My goal is to get as proficient as possible on my instrument, as well as to foster a positive community wherever I end up. My future goals in music are to continue performing as much as possible. As of now, I have found relative success in the Los Angeles scene, recording with Karolina Rose, being a part of Ana Azerli's orchestra on the Hollywood Christmas parade, playing with Sal Valentenetti, and I have even got the offer and am planning to be a part of Richard Cheese's tour next summer. This success has been a blessing, and I want to continue to refine my skills and musicianship, in order tohave more and more amazing experiences, such as the ones I have already been blessed with. Additionally, I would love to teach children at some point. Money is a barrier for a large number of passionate and talented musicians, one day I would love to teach in a place where I know kids do not have as much of an opportunity to pursue their passions, to help push the youth into being more artistic and fulfilled. Money is a barrier when it comes to pursuing a higher education in music as well. This makes me verygrateful that foundations such as Hot Jazz Jubilee offer the potential to young and passionate musicians to alleviate this concern. Overall, I see myself playing jazz and loving music for the rest of my life. I am highly devoted to pursuing a career in music and honoring the beautiful, long-standing traditions of jazz as a whole, as well as bringing a positive feeling to all those who will allow me to play for and with them.