Less than a week after my father passed away, I walked into my first theater rehearsal, unsure if I even had the strength to speak. Grief sat heavy in my chest, and for a moment, I considered turning around. But when I finally spoke, my voice didn’t just carry my pain—it connected me to others in the room. People listened. They responded. They understood. In that moment, I realized that music and performance were more than personal outlets; they were ways to reach people, to share emotion, and to create community even in the hardest times. Since then, I have intentionally used music to bring people together. Through the Black River High School Symphonic Band, Auditioned Jazz Band, and Chamber Choir, I’ve participated in performances that go beyond simply playing notes or singing lyrics. Each rehearsal and concert is an opportunity to create something meaningful with others. Whether I am playing trumpet or singing in an ensemble, I focus on blending my voice with those around me—listening carefully, supporting my peers, and contributing to a unified sound. These moments of collaboration turn music into a shared experience, one that invites audiences to feel something deeper than sound alone. My involvement with the Hope College Choir further expanded this impact, as we worked to create performances that resonate not only within our school but with broader and more diverse audiences. Theater has also been a powerful avenue for sharing music and storytelling. By channeling my personal experiences into my roles, I’ve been able to create performances that feel honest and relatable. I’ve had peers and audience members approach me after shows to share how a scene or song reflected their own emotions or experiences. Those moments have stayed with me, reinforcing the idea that music and performance can help people feel seen and less alone. Through theater, I’ve learned that bringing music to others is not just about technical skill—it’s about vulnerability, empathy, and the courage to be authentic. As someone who has often felt like an outsider, I am especially committed to creating inclusive musical spaces. In rehearsals and performances, I strive to uplift others, encourage participation, and ensure that every voice is valued. I understand what it feels like to go unheard, and I work to foster environments where that is never the case. To me, music is a bridge—one that can connect people across differences and create a sense of belonging where it may not have existed before. Moving forward, I hope to continue using music not only as a form of expression but as a way to serve others. Whether on stage, in a classroom, or within my community, I will use my voice to create spaces where people feel seen, heard, and connected. My journey with music began as a way to find my own voice, but it has grown into something much greater—a lifelong commitment to helping others find theirs.

Less than a week after my father passed away, I walked into my first theater rehearsal, unsure if I even had the strength to speak. Grief sat heavy in my chest, and for a moment, I considered turning around. But when I finally spoke, my voice didn’t just carry my pain—it connected me to others in the room. People listened. They responded. They understood. In that moment, I realized that music and performance were more than personal outlets; they were ways to reach people, to share emotion, and to create community even in the hardest times. Since then, I have intentionally used music to bring people together. Through the Black River High School Symphonic Band, Auditioned Jazz Band, and Chamber Choir, I’ve participated in performances that go beyond simply playing notes or singing lyrics. Each rehearsal and concert is an opportunity to create something meaningful with others. Whether I am playing trumpet or singing in an ensemble, I focus on blending my voice with those around me—listening carefully, supporting my peers, and contributing to a unified sound. These moments of collaboration turn music into a shared experience, one that invites audiences to feel something deeper than sound alone. My involvement with the Hope College Choir further expanded this impact, as we worked to create performances that resonate not only within our school but with broader and more diverse audiences. Theater has also been a powerful avenue for sharing music and storytelling. By channeling my personal experiences into my roles, I’ve been able to create performances that feel honest and relatable. I’ve had peers and audience members approach me after shows to share how a scene or song reflected their own emotions or experiences. Those moments have stayed with me, reinforcing the idea that music and performance can help people feel seen and less alone. Through theater, I’ve learned that bringing music to others is not just about technical skill—it’s about vulnerability, empathy, and the courage to be authentic. As someone who has often felt like an outsider, I am especially committed to creating inclusive musical spaces. In rehearsals and performances, I strive to uplift others, encourage participation, and ensure that every voice is valued. I understand what it feels like to go unheard, and I work to foster environments where that is never the case. To me, music is a bridge—one that can connect people across differences and create a sense of belonging where it may not have existed before. Moving forward, I hope to continue using music not only as a form of expression but as a way to serve others. Whether on stage, in a classroom, or within my community, I will use my voice to create spaces where people feel seen, heard, and connected. My journey with music began as a way to find my own voice, but it has grown into something much greater—a lifelong commitment to helping others find theirs.