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Janae Jackson

1x

Finalist

Bio

Hi! I am Janae Jackson. I am a sophomore at the University of Tampa. I play piano, with a major in Music Performance. I have such an affinity for all things art, and love to share that with others. I have competed in local music competitions and festivals, as well as performing in ensembles, such as the University of Tampa Symphony Orchestra. In high school, I have been apart of NJHS and NJHS, engaging in numerous community service opportunities. I was President of my NHS 2024-2025 chapter, leading and guiding other members. In 9th grade, I was selected to be a Keys to Kindness ambassador representing the school, holding a lemonade stand with an Ukraine Relief fund. I am a hardworking person, loving to stay busy and learn!

Education

The University of Tampa

Bachelor's degree program
2025 - 2029
  • Majors:
    • Visual and Performing Arts, General
    • Music

Doral College

Associate's degree program
2021 - 2025

Sports Leadership And Management Academy (Slam)

High School
2021 - 2025

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Master's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Music
    • Education, Other
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Test scores:

    • 1230
      SAT
    • 1160
      PSAT

    Career

    • Dream career field:

      Music

    • Dream career goals:

      Concert Pianist

    • Server

      Jeremiah's Italian Ice
      2023 – 20241 year

    Sports

    Volleyball

    Intramural
    2018 – 20191 year

    Arts

    • Florida Federation of Music Clubs

      Music
      2021 – Present

    Future Interests

    Entrepreneurship

    Richard Turner Jr. Musical Gifts Scholarship
    WCEJ Thornton Foundation Music & Art Scholarship
    Attending University of Tampa has strengthened not only my abilities as a musician, but also my understanding of how I can use music to positively impact my community after graduation. I feel like I have fully grown and matured musically as a person, even just after my first year. As an upcoming sophomore pursuing music performance, I plan to make a positive impact on the world through music; sharing that joy through performance and education. Music has the ability to bring people together, evoke emotion, and be a source a comfort you never thought you needed. I hope to use my education and experiences from school to make the arts more meaningful and accessible for our future. One experience that sticks with me happened while I was practicing in one of the practice rooms. A group of kids from a local middle school was touring the arts building stopped outside my practice room, curious about what I was doing. I invited them inside and chatted with them a bit. I performed a snippet of the piece I had been practicing. They took out their phones, looking at each other giggling in excitement. Their amazement reminded me how influential the arts can be for the youth. Moments like that have inspired me to eventually teach music, helping people discover the same confidence and passion that music gave me. UTampa has also helped me grow as a person, with my professionalism and critical thinking. As a musician, these qualities are essential because being a musician and performing requires a lot of adaptability and perseverance. I have learned how to accept challenges, balance responsibilities, and continue improving through hard work and having discipline. These experiences will allow me to contribute positively to my community as a performer and as a role model for students who may be discovering music for the first time. After graduation, I hope to continue performing while also teaching piano. I already have my first piano student that I am teaching this summer. This was such an exciting accomplishment for me, feeling like I am one step closer to my future. I want to create an encouraging environment where students feel supported, inspired, and motivated to grow. Music has shaped my life, and I believe sharing it with others is one of the best ways I can give back to my community.
    James B. McCleary Music Scholarship
    Music unexpectedly became something I eat, sleep, and breathe. Initially being raised in athletics, I started my first piano lesson when I was 11. After that very lesson, I knew that music was going to be in my life forever. I quit the school's volleyball team, solely believing in my musical future. My first piano teacher introduced me to classical music. She was working on Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata and showed me what she had so far. I was astonished by the colors coming out of the piano, echoing into the fluorescent-lit music classroom. I had never heard harmony like that or phrasing like that, and my middle school self was amazed. That is where my love for classical music began. I started to extensively listen to classical music. I can recall one year where it was the only genre I listened to. I was hardcore into the music, discovering new pieces and composers I liked. It was so enjoyable to hear various performers' interpretations of pieces and how the same piece of music can sound drastically different. My love for music and the piano grew more and more as I listened to more pieces and watched all sorts of music-related social media videos. Having such easy access to all sorts of music allowed me to grow exponentially in my craft, further deepening that love. Even in my early years, I was winning local piano competitions and festivals. My repertoire was growing year by year, increasing by difficulty. In a matter of 3 years, I was playing Bach and Chopin nocturnes. I felt like a true pianist, like the ones I used to see in the videos. I can thank my former piano teacher for that. Once I switched to a different piano studio, I discovered a whole new side to the piano. I never would've started competing; I probably wouldn't be majoring in music like I am right now. Ms. Emi was truly the greatest music mentor, always encouraging me; she 100% never let me doubt myself. My true love is performing. I love the thrill and nervousness that comes with being on stage, and it's so great sharing that energy with others. When I perform, it's such an intimate place in time; the world stands still, and it's just us with the music. In the future, I want to continue performing for and with others. In addition, I love working with the youth. I have previously worked as a TA, and I enjoy the bright energy kids have. It would be so inspiring to see the younger generations engaged with the arts. I hope to get my master's or doctorate in music so I can continue learning, soaking up all the knowledge I can. I want my life to be full of music, performing with and for others, teaching, and overall creating a musical future.
    Students Impacted by Incarceration Scholarship
    For most of my life, I have said that I have two mothers. Of course, I have my biological mother. The second is my grandmother, the woman who raised me, provided for me, and loved me through every stage of my life. Whenever people asked who she was, I usually just called her my mom. It was honestly easier than explaining the truth, that my mother was sent away to prison for 15 years. When my mother was incarcerated, my family’s entire dynamic shifted. My grandmother and uncle became my new support system, and we eventually moved from Virginia to Florida. Some weekends were spent driving on the interstate for hours to correctional facilities for visitation. Our family time consisted of long drives, security checks, and tearful goodbyes at the end of the day. For many years, the only way I knew my mother was through letters. Later, letters became emails and video calls through a laptop. JPay, stamps, and scheduled visits became normal parts of my childhood. It was hard for me to figure out how to maintain our relationship through prison systems, screens, and distance. The embarrassment around the incarcerated affected me just as much as the actual lock-up itself. For a long time, I rarely told people the truth about my mom because I was embarrassed and afraid of being judged by my mother's choices. I worried that one sentence, 'My mom is in prison,' would be the only thing people saw about me. At the same time, being raised without my mom or dad unexpectedly allowed me to grow. My grandmother gave everything she had to provide me with a stable and loving life. Because of her support, I was able to excel in school and discover the part of my life that would eventually shape my future, music. Once I began piano lessons in middle school, music became more than a hobby. My repertoire started to advance rapidly year by year, further growing my love for the craft. I knew that from the moment I started playing piano, it would be in my life forever. Music brings me a sense of comfort I didn’t have growing up. It's a sense of catharsis, and I have the most joy sharing that with others. My grandmother supported every lesson, competition, and milestone, helping me turn my passion into purpose. Growing up impacted by incarceration taught me resilience, empathy, and creativity. I know now a person’s circumstances do not determine their worth or potential. Today, I am pursuing a degree in music performance with the goal of sharing music through both performance and education. My life has been impacted by incarceration, but it definitely did not define me.
    Michele L. Durant Scholarship
    My name is Janae Jackson, and unexpectedly music became something I eat, sleep, and breathe. Initially being raised in athletics, once I started piano lessons in middle school, I grew as a person exponentially. I grew a strong liking to classical music, and from that point, I knew I would be living a new musical life. I started to extensively listen to classical music, studying certain composers and performers. Even though most musicians hate practicing, it's my favorite part of the day. Even in my early years, I started winning local piano competitions and conventions, as well as advancing my repertoire. In a matter of 3 years, I was playing Bach and Chopin nocturnes. I had such a huge support system around me, including my grandmother and piano teacher. My grandmother drove me to every piano lesson and every piano competition and supported me financially in lessons. My piano teacher was my rock, my mentor who pushed me to be where I am today. I knew I wanted to pursue music professionally; fast forward to now, I am in college pursuing a music performance degree. I have such a strong love for music and want to share those experiences with others. I can recall one day being in the practice room when there was a group of elementary students touring the arts building. One of the kids was staring outside my door, so I invited all of them and started a conversation. They were all so sweet and they wanted to hear me play. Once I played the piece I was working on, all their faces lit up in amazement; phones were instantly being taken out. That moment stays in my brain forever, and I hope they remember it too. It was so great to see younger generations engaged in the arts. There is no doubt that education of the arts in society has dwindled. Schools aren't teaching music classes anymore or supporting most of the arts department anymore. Music has such great power on the brain and body, improving things like cognitive quality. I want to be part of the movement, reminding the world that learning music, or any other art, is just as important. It is important to build those connections, allowing people to find their tools for regulation and self-expression. I wish to continue to have a life full of music, hoping to teach and inspire the future generations of musicians. I wish to have a lasting impact in the world of music through performance and teaching. By sharing my passion for music with others, I hope to inspire a new generation of musicians who will carry on the tradition of rich musical history and expression.
    Kristinspiration Scholarship
    One moment that forever stays ingrained in my brain is when I performed for a group of elementary students touring my college's art building. I play the piano, having been engrossed in music since I was 11 years old. I was practicing my repertoire in one of the practice rooms when I saw a little girl staring outside of the door. I invited her, and eventually all of them, inside and started a conversation. They were all so sweet and they wanted to hear me play. Once I played the piece I was working on, their faces lit up in amazement, phones instantly being taken out. It was so inspiring to see younger generations interested and engaged in the arts. This is why education is important to me, to ensure the arts and the world of music don't die within the youth. I have a love for performing music, but it is an even greater joy to share that knowledge with others. I wouldn't be the great musician I am today if it weren't for my dedicated, passionate teacher. It's important that we have teachers that love what they do, truly wanting the future to succeed. Ms. Emi, my former piano teacher, taught what a good, encouraging music teacher should be. She pushed me beyond my capabilities, never allowing me to doubt myself. I am truly grateful for the knowledge she has given me; I probably wouldn't be choosing to major in music if it weren't for her. I want to be able to be that teacher for another child, fostering their success and encouraging the love of learning and the arts. There is no doubt that education of the arts in society has dwindled. Schools aren't teaching music classes anymore or supporting most of the arts department anymore. Music has such great power on the brain and body, improving things like cognitive quality. I want to be part of that movement, reminding the world that learning music, and any other art, is just as important. It is important to build those connections, allowing people to find their tools for regulation and self-expression. I will continue to have a life full of music, hoping to teach and inspire the future generations of musicians. I wish to have a lasting impact in the world of music through performance and teaching. By sharing my passion for music with others, I hope to inspire a new generation of musicians who will carry on the tradition of rich musical history and expression.
    Marshall and Dorothy Smith Music Scholarship
    Music unexpectedly became something I eat, sleep, and breathe. Initially being raised in athletics, I started my first piano lesson when I was 11. After that very lesson, I knew that music was going to be in my life forever. I quit the school's volleyball team, solely believing in my musical future. My first piano teacher introduced me to classical music. She was working on Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata and showed me what she had so far. I was astonished by the colors coming out of the piano, echoing into the fluorescent-lit music classroom. I had never heard harmony like that or phrasing like that, and my middle school self was amazed. That is where my love for classical music began. I started to extensively listen to classical music. I can recall one year where it was the only genre I listened to. I was hardcore into the music, discovering new pieces and composers I liked. It was so enjoyable to hear various performers' interpretations of pieces and how the same piece of music can sound drastically different. My love for music and the piano grew more and more as I listened to more pieces and watched all sorts of music-related social media videos. Having such easy access to all sorts of music allowed me to grow exponentially in my craft, further deepening that love. Even in my early years, I was winning local piano competitions and festivals. My repertoire was growing year by year, increasing by difficulty. In a matter of 3 years, I was playing Bach and Chopin nocturnes. I felt like a true pianist, like the ones I used to see in the videos. I can thank my former piano teacher for that. Once I switched to a different piano studio, I discovered a whole new side to the piano. I never would've started competing; I probably wouldn't be majoring in music like I am right now. Ms. Emi was truly the greatest music mentor, always encouraging me; she 100% never let me doubt myself. My true love is performing. I love the thrill and nervousness that comes with being on stage, and it's so great sharing that energy with others. When I perform, it's such an intimate place in time; the world stands still, and it's just us with the music. In the future, I want to continue performing for and with others. In addition, I love working with the youth. I have previously worked as a TA, and I enjoy the bright energy kids have. It would be so inspiring to see the younger generations engaged with the arts. I hope to get my master's or doctorate in music so I can continue learning, soaking up all the knowledge I can. I want my life to be full of music, performing with and for others, teaching, and overall creating a musical future.
    Alexis Mackenzie Memorial Scholarship for the Arts
    I feel like Music has been and will always be a part of my DNA, but it became something much deeper when I started learning classical piano at eleven years old. What began as a fun hobby quickly turned into something I truly connected with. Piano became my time where I could express myself, work through my emotions, and stay grounded. As I grew more serious about music, I realized how powerful it can be, not just for me, but as a way to reach and connect with other people. That’s what keeps me passionate: the ability to create moments that bring people together and make them feel and hear something real. I believe music has the power to spark wonder and emotion in a way that few things can. A piece of music can calm someone’s nerves, bring back a memory, or even offer comfort during difficult times. As a pianist, I’ve experienced this firsthand during performances and recitals, watching people respond to the music, sometimes with "oooo"s, smiles, or quiet stillness. It’s those moments that remind me why I do this. I don’t just want to play notes; I want to tell stories and create experiences that stay with people long after the music ends. As I continue my studies at the University of Tampa, I plan to pursue a career in performance. I’m especially drawn to playing in smaller, more intimate venues like schools, libraries, and community centers, places where the audience can feel closely connected to the music. I want to help more people, especially young audiences, feel like classical music is something they can relate to. I don’t think it should be seen as intimidating or out of reach, it should feel alive and accessible, something anyone can enjoy. At the same time, I’m also passionate about teaching. I hope to one day offer private lessons or create a program that provides affordable instruction to students who may not have access to music education. Piano has taught me discipline, creativity, and confidence, and I want to help others discover those same lessons for themselves. It would be incredibly fulfilling to mentor young musicians and watch them grow, both as artists and as people. One of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had recently was performing Chopin’s Nocturne in A-flat Major, Op. 32 No. 2. It had been one of my favorite pieces since I first started playing piano, and finally learning and performing it was a full-circle moment for me. Playing it onstage reminded me of how far I’ve come and how much music still means to me. In a world that can feel overwhelming and rushed, I believe music helps people slow down and reflect. Whether I’m onstage or in a lesson room, I want to offer people the space to feel beauty, curiosity, or peace. My goal is to create that kind of impact through my music, and hopefully help make the world fall a little more in love with classical music.
    Marshall and Dorothy Smith Music Scholarship
    I started playing classical piano when I was eleven, and over time, it’s become a really important part of my life. What began as something I was simply curious about turned into something I truly enjoy and feel connected to. I’ve grown to love the structure, creativity, and expression that come with learning and playing music, especially classical pieces. As I’ve developed my music skills, piano has become a space where I can challenge myself, express emotions, and stay centered through the ups and downs of school and everyday life. One of my favorite memories from my piano journey was performing Chopin’s Nocturne in A-flat major at a local recital. When I was first starting piano, this was one of the pieces that made me fall in love with classical music. I remember listening to it on repeat, imagining how it might feel to play something so expressive and beautiful. Years later, getting to finally learn and perform it felt incredibly fulfilling, it was like everything had come full circle. That experience reminded me why I love performing, it allows me to share something deeply personal with others. Alongside music, I’ve also stayed focused on my academics. I took dual enrollment courses throughout high school and earned my associate degree by graduation, which helped me grow not just as a student but as a disciplined, well-rounded person. Balancing piano practice with coursework has taught me how to manage my time and stay committed to long-term goals. This fall, I’ll be attending the University of Tampa as a music major. I’m excited to study piano at a deeper level, take part in performance opportunities, and collaborate with other musicians. After completing my degree, I hope to become a performing pianist, ideally working in small ensembles or more intimate concert settings. I’ve always been drawn to the personal, emotional connection that comes from live performance. I also have a strong interest in teaching. Eventually, I’d love to offer private lessons or even running a program for young students who may not have easy access to music education. Teaching would allow me to give back to the musical community that has shaped me, and help others find the same joy and direction that piano gave me. Whether performing or teaching, I want to keep music at the center of my life. I can not imagine my life without it, and I’m excited to use it to make a positive impact on others in the years to come.
    WCEJ Thornton Foundation Music & Art Scholarship
    Music has always felt like my way of connecting with the world. As a classical pianist, I’ve realized that music has the ability to reach people in ways that words often can’t. I hope to use my music to create moments for others, whether its bringing people together, telling a story, or make someone’s day a little brighter. In the future, I see myself performing in concerts and small ensembles, not only in concert halls but also in smaller community based spaces. I believe music should be shared with everyone, not just those who already have access to it. I’d love to perform for people who might not typically attend classical concerts, whether that’s in schools, or small local events. I want to help break the idea that classical music is out of reach or only for certain audiences. I also want to explore the idea of teaching. I know how much my piano lessons shaped me, teaching me discipline and focus while exploring the world of music, and I want to pass that on. One day, I hope to offer studio lessons or be a part of a program that supports young musicians. Helping others find their voice through music would be one of the most meaningful ways I could give back In the end, I just want to use my art to lift others up. Whether through a moving performance, a quiet moment in the practice room with a student, or simply being someone who encourages people to keep creating, I want my music to have purpose. Music gave me a sense of direction and identity, and I’m excited to use it to make a positive difference in the world around me.
    First Generation College, First Generation Immigrant Scholarship
    My identity plays a huge role in how I see the world and how I make decisions. One major part of that identity is my love for music. I didn’t start playing piano until I was eleven, which is a bit later than most people who pursue it as a career. But the moment I sat down and started learning the way of the ivories, I just knew this was going to be part of my life forever. It felt like something that had always been in me, I just hadn’t tapped into it yet. Even though I started later, I didn’t let that stop me. I put in the work, not because I had to, but because I genuinely loved it. Music became a way for me to express myself and gave myself a new purpose, adding to my evolving identity. It’s taught me discipline, patience, and how to really listen, not just to sound, but to people and emotions too. Playing piano isn’t just something I do, it’s a part of who I am. It’s shaped how I handle challenges, how I connect with others, and how I picture my future. No matter where life takes me, I know music will always be there, continuing to guide my path and reminding me of who I am.
    Sunni E. Fagan Memorial Music Scholarship
    Music has always been a part of my life since I was 11, and over the years, it’s become much more than just playing the piano—it’s become a way for me to express myself, connect with others, and find joy. What draws me to music is the way it allows me to communicate feelings and ideas that are hard to put into words. There’s something really powerful about being able to play a piece and share an emotion or story with others, and that connection is what makes music so special to me. Whether I’m performing for friends and family or just practicing on my own, I always feel like I’m speaking a language that everyone can understand. It’s a form of expression that transcends all sorts of barriers, and I find that incredibly rewarding. What I love about music is that it’s not just about the technical side of it—it’s about creativity, emotion, and the way it brings people together. Music is a way to escape, reflect, and express yourself in a way that words can’t always do. It allows me to connect with others in ways I might not otherwise be able to, and it’s been the foundation for so many memorable moments in my life. Whether it’s making someone smile with a song or sharing an inside joke through a music meme, music has always been a bridge that connects me with others. I’m passionate about music because it’s a universal language, and I believe it’s something that can bring joy and understanding to anyone, regardless of where they come from. In my future career, I hope to work with youth in a way that not only teaches them musical skills but also helps them develop confidence, creativity, and a sense of community. I plan to offer lessons, workshops, and opportunities for young musicians to perform and collaborate with others. I want to be a mentor who encourages young people to see the value in their artistic abilities and to help them realize that music isn’t just about mastering an instrument—it’s about using that instrument to tell a story, express emotions, and connect with others. Music has shaped me in so many ways, and I want to give back by passing on that knowledge and passion to the next generation. Through teaching, performing, and fostering a love of music in youth, I hope to inspire young musicians to embrace their creativity and find their own voices through music, just as I’ve been able to do.
    Richard W. Vandament Music Scholarship
    Music has been a part of my life since I was 11, and it’s always felt like more than just playing notes on a piano. It’s how I express myself and connect with others on a deeper level. Over the years, music has helped me communicate feelings that words sometimes can’t. Whether I’m playing for friends and family or just practicing alone, I’ve always felt that music allows me to share something personal and meaningful. It’s a language everyone can understand, and it’s one I’ve always been drawn to. There’s something special about how music brings people together, whether it’s through a shared appreciation of a piece or just by making someone smile when they hear me play. For me, it’s about creating moments that people can connect with—something that goes beyond just the notes on the page. One of the biggest lessons music has taught me is patience. I’ve spent years working through difficult pieces and refining my technique, and I’ve learned that progress takes time. There are times when it feels like I’m not improving or when I make mistakes, but I’ve come to understand that those moments are just part of the process. Music has taught me to keep pushing forward, even when things get tough, and to see the value in the journey. This mindset has carried over into other areas of my life as well. It’s given me a strong sense of discipline and a drive to keep going, even when I don’t see immediate results. Music has also played a huge role in how I connect with others. Whether it’s performing for people I care about, creating relatable Piano TikTok video, or just discussing pieces with my teacher, music has always been a way for me to bond with others. It’s something that brings people together, no matter where they’re from or what they’re into. Through all the years I’ve spent with music, I’ve seen how it can create shared experiences that feel meaningful. That’s something I want to carry with me as I continue on my journey with music—it’s not just about playing; it’s about making connections and sharing something that others can appreciate too. As I look to the future, I want to make music not just a passion, but a career. I see so much potential in using music to inspire others, whether it’s through performances, teaching, or just creating something that people can connect with. Music has been such a huge part of my life, and I want to continue finding ways to share it with others. I believe that music has the power to impact people in ways that words can’t, and that’s something I want to be a part of. I can’t imagine a future where music isn’t at the center of what I do, and I’m excited to see where this path takes me.
    Everett J. Collins, Jr. Music Scholarship
    Since I was eleven, I dedicated myself to the world of music. Playing piano has truly changed my life for the better. Learning classical piano has not only taught me technical skill, but instilled a whole new level of virtues within me. Suddenly, I am filled with a sense of discipline and motivation. Music has given me a sense of worth within my life, and I want to share that passion with others. As I continue developing my craft, my goal is to showcase and use my abilities to positively impact others. Many often stray from pursuing a career in arts as it can be sometimes challenging to make living, but to me, it is so rewarding and fulfilling. My whole world is music, and I cannot imagine pursuing anything else. I believe furthering my education in college will allow me to grow and develop my future career and myself as a person. Hello, my name is Janae Jackson and I am a high school senior at SLAM Tampa. I have always been interested in the arts, dabbling in photography as a child, but I always knew that I wanted to pursue music. I started piano lessons at age 11, and immediately fell in love. My family and friends around me supported me on my music journey. Ever since then, I have competed at events and played at recitals... enjoying every single bit. It's not about the awards or recognition, but about each performance being genuine and connecting with the audience. Classical music is forever timeless and has the power to connect cultures and people, without the use of words. Many do attest that it can be "boring, or that classical music is only listened to by old people. Music is the universal language for all of us and can serve as a bridge to foster community. My ambition is to bring classical music to new audiences. My ambition is to keep the music alive, performing or giving workshops/lessons to inspire a love for music within others. By introducing classical music to younger generations, we can ensure its legacy lives on for years to come. Giving exposure and education can allow us break down stereotypes and show that classical music is truly for everyone to enjoy. Through my passion for piano playing, I want to be an advocate for music education and connection. My journey as a pianist is to use my skills and talents to uplift and inspiring others, making a positive impact on the world.
    Al Luna Memorial Design Scholarship
    Since I was eleven, I dedicated myself to the world of music. Playing piano has truly changed my life for the better. Learning classical piano has not only taught me technical skill, but instilled a whole new level of virtues within me. Suddenly, I am filled with a sense of discipline and motivation. Music has given me a sense of worth within my life, and I want to share that passion with others. As I continue developing my craft, my goal is to showcase and use my abilities to positively impact others. Many often stray from pursuing a career in arts as it can be sometimes challenging to make living, but to me, it is so rewarding and fulfilling. My whole world is music, and I cannot imagine pursuing anything else. I believe furthering my education in college will allow me to grow and develop my future career and myself as a person. Hello, my name is Janae Jackson and I am a high school senior at SLAM Tampa. I have always been interested in the arts, dabbling in photography as a child, but I always knew that I wanted to pursue music. I started piano lessons at age 11, and immediately fell in love. My family and friends around me supported me on my music journey. Ever since then, I have competed at events and played at recitals... enjoying every single bit. It's not about the awards or recognition, but about each performance being genuine and connecting with the audience. Classical music is forever timeless and has the power to connect cultures and people, without the use of words. Many do attest that it can be "boring, or that classical music is only listened to by old people. Music is the universal language for all of us and can serve as a bridge to foster community. My ambition is to bring classical music to new audiences. My ambition is to keep the music alive, performing or giving workshops/lessons to inspire a love for music within others. By introducing classical music to younger generations, we can ensure its legacy lives on for years to come. Giving exposure and education can allow us break down stereotypes and show that classical music is truly for everyone to enjoy. Through my passion for piano playing, I want to be an advocate for music education and connection. My journey as a pianist is to use my skills and talents to uplift and inspiring others, making a positive impact on the world.
    Neil Margeson Sound Scholarship
    Music has been a part of my life since I was a young girl. There is a video of me when I was 7, and I am playing with a digital keyboard app on my tablet. I should've known then that music would be such a significant part of my life. I didn't start my music lessons until I was 11. I begged my mom for piano lessons and finally on May 2, 2019, my music journey began. Before starting piano, I focused more on athletics. I have done: volleyball, dance, and gymnastics. Ms. Kathy was my first piano teacher and she imbued the love of music within me. She introduced me to classical music and made me feel comfortable with the music. Shortly after, COVID-19 was in full effect and a lockdown was put in place. My lessons with her halted, for our safety, but I am forever grateful for what she introduced me to. I have had a few piano teachers since then, but none of them compare to my current teacher, Ms. Emi. She has strengthened my love for music. She is a fantastic pianist and piano teacher. Joining her studio has accelerated my music career. I have joined the Florida Federation of Music Clubs and doing this has diversified my repertoire and I have gained very valuable experience. The federation participates in certain festivals which can lead to various awards and honors. Throughout my years with the studio, my performances have won me honors such as Honorable Mention at the 2023 Pinellas Chopin Competition and 1st place at the 2023 FFMC Junior Convention for Piano Solo. Participating in these competitions and conventions has made me realize that I love performing for others. Practicing for performances motivates me truly and contributes to my passion. I believe I will never get sick of piano or music, I love the drive it gives me. Music and my school life take place in two completely different worlds, but music somehow motivates me in my academic life. As mentioned earlier, it gives me a drive to keep going. I plan to pursue music for college and I know that after high school, it'll be my time to shine. I'm seeing high school as an opportunity to harness and develop my talent. Doing well in piano makes me do well in school, and vice versa. I cannot have one without the other. In the future, I want to become a Piano Performer. That career path is very broad and I am willing to adapt to the versatility of that market. I specifically play Classical Music and I'm hoping to innovate the scene. I want to bring Classical Music to a larger audience and share my love of music with others, and I believe performing can help achieve that. I have a deep love for music and I cannot imagine my life without it. Wherever life will take me, music will always be a part of it... even if it's minuscule.