
Hobbies and interests
Soccer
Sage Iliescu
775
Bold Points1x
Finalist
Sage Iliescu
775
Bold Points1x
FinalistBio
Ever since I can remember, I've been drawn to music. It has always fascinated me. I began playing the trumpet in 4th grade and haven’t stopped since. In high school, I developed a deep interest in jazz studies and decided to pursue it in college. I'm also a soccer player. While I may not be the most naturally talented, I am a proud member of the varsity team. I plan to double major because I have another passion and can’t decide which I love more. Attending biology classes and learning about the subject is incredibly exciting for me. I believe musicians can become excellent physicians, with my ultimate goal being to specialize in pediatric cardiology. Some might wonder why I would choose to double major, but for me, it's straightforward—I get to study two subjects I truly love at once. Am I worried about the workload? No, I'm thrilled! My parents play a significant role in my life; their support at home makes me the dedicated individual I am today. I aim to share my love and passion with others and have a positive impact on people's lives. Thank you for considering my application! Sage Iliescu
Education
Vista Murrieta High School
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Bachelor's degree program
Majors of interest:
- Biology, General
- Music
Career
Dream career field:
Music
Dream career goals:
Jazz professor/ medical physician
tutor
kumon2024 – Present1 year
Sports
Soccer
Varsity2011 – Present14 years
Arts
Vista Murrieta High school
Music2021 – PresentVista Murrieta High school
Music2015 – Present
Public services
Volunteering
DMMS — Volunteer2023 – Present
Williams Foundation Trailblazer Scholarship
My musical background began in 4th or 5th grade when I started playing the trumpet, fostering an early love for classical music. I continued with band through school, achieving significant milestones such as auditioning for and earning a spot in the Classical Trumpet All-State ensemble in 8th grade, as well as during my junior and senior years of high school. I began my journey at Evans Ranch Elementary, where band was only in its second year of existence in my small-town school. Later, I transferred to a more arts-focused district, where I expanded my experience by playing in classical ensembles and joining a small after-school jazz big band for fun. In high school, I joined both jazz band and orchestra, quickly advancing to the top band for classical and the second highest for jazz as a freshman.
My passion for jazz truly developed through opportunities outside of school, as my program focused primarily on classical music. I applied for and received scholarships to attend prestigious summer jazz workshops, including UCLA’s Jazz Intensive, Stanford’s Jazz Workshop, and Idyllwild Arts Academy. These programs not only enhanced my skills in improvisation but also allowed me to perform with talented musicians from around the world in combos and top-tier big bands directed by renowned professionals such as John Daversa, Marshall Hawkins, and Wayne Bergeron. On the classical side, my school’s nationally ranked program challenged me with some of the finest literature, such as Music for Prague 1968, The Traveler, and Symphony in Bb. As a committed musician, I believe that music is a global language that has the ability to motivate, connect, and bring significant change in the world. Since many studies have shown that music has a unique potential to improve emotional well-being and reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, I wish to recognize mental health as a serious social issue. Through my compositions, I hope to produce works that offer a sound haven for people going through tough times in addition to increasing awareness of mental health issues. Beyond only creating original music, I hope to work with mental health groups to provide modern music therapy programs to communities and schools. Both healing listening sessions and active music-making would be incorporated into these programs, giving students and community members useful skills for self-expression and emotional control. I feel driven to provide that same sense of optimism and connection with others since I have personally experienced the transformational power of music during difficult times. The beauty of music is its capacity to cut beyond social linguistics, and cultural boundaries. It creates settings where individuals may feel supported and understood without using words. In order to produce open parts that speak to everyone from all walks of life, I seek to provide a variety of musical traditions and modern aspects into my work. Through creative expression, this method removes the judgment that is associated with discussing mental health issues and promotes understanding. Using these ideas, I envision building a supportive network where music becomes a tool for both personal healing and a communication system of pressing society issues. In the end, I believe music can be a powerful support for positive transformation in our communities. I am deeply committed to using my talents and artistic vision to make a meaningful contribution to society, one note at a time.
Gregory Chase Carter Memorial Scholarship
My musical background began in 4th or 5th grade when I started playing the trumpet, fostering an early love for classical music. I continued with band through school, achieving significant milestones such as auditioning for and earning a spot in the Classical Trumpet All-State ensemble in 8th grade, as well as during my junior and senior years of high school. I began my journey at Evans Ranch Elementary, where band was only in its second year of existence in my small-town school. Later, I transferred to a more arts-focused district, where I expanded my experience by playing in classical ensembles and joining a small after-school jazz big band for fun. In high school, I joined both jazz band and orchestra, quickly advancing to the top band for classical and the second highest for jazz as a freshman.
My passion for jazz truly developed through opportunities outside of school, as my program focused primarily on classical music. I applied for and received scholarships to attend prestigious summer jazz workshops, including UCLA’s Jazz Intensive, Stanford’s Jazz Workshop, and Idyllwild Arts Academy. These programs not only enhanced my skills in improvisation but also allowed me to perform with talented musicians from around the world in combos and top-tier big bands directed by renowned professionals such as John Daversa, Marshall Hawkins, and Wayne Bergeron. On the classical side, my school’s nationally ranked program challenged me with some of the finest literature, such as Music for Prague 1968, The Traveler, and Symphony in Bb. As a committed musician, I believe that music is a global language that has the ability to motivate, connect, and bring significant change in the world. Since many studies have shown that music has a unique potential to improve emotional well-being and reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, I wish to recognize mental health as a serious social issue. Through my compositions, I hope to produce works that offer a sound haven for people going through tough times in addition to increasing awareness of mental health issues. Beyond only creating original music, I hope to work with mental health groups to provide modern music therapy programs to communities and schools. Both healing listening sessions and active music-making would be incorporated into these programs, giving students and community members useful skills for self-expression and emotional control. I feel driven to provide that same sense of optimism and connection with others since I have personally experienced the transformational power of music during difficult times. The beauty of music is its capacity to cut beyond social linguistics, and cultural boundaries. It creates settings where individuals may feel supported and understood without using words. In order to produce open parts that speak to everyone from all walks of life, I seek to provide a variety of musical traditions and modern aspects into my work. Through creative expression, this method removes the judgment that is associated with discussing mental health issues and promotes understanding. Using these ideas, I envision building a supportive network where music becomes a tool for both personal healing and a communication system of pressing society issues. In the end, I believe music can be a powerful support for positive transformation in our communities. I am deeply committed to using my talents and artistic vision to make a meaningful contribution to society, one note at a time.
Brittany McGlone Memorial Scholarship
My musical background began in 4th or 5th grade when I started playing the trumpet, fostering an early love for classical music. I continued with band through school, achieving significant milestones such as auditioning for and earning a spot in the Classical Trumpet All-State ensemble in 8th grade, as well as during my junior and senior years of high school. I began my journey at Evans Ranch Elementary, where band was only in its second year of existence in my small-town school. Later, I transferred to a more arts-focused district, where I expanded my experience by playing in classical ensembles and joining a small after-school jazz big band for fun. In high school, I joined both jazz band and orchestra, quickly advancing to the top band for classical and the second highest for jazz as a freshman.
My passion for jazz truly developed through opportunities outside of school, as my program focused primarily on classical music. I applied for and received scholarships to attend prestigious summer jazz workshops, including UCLA’s Jazz Intensive, Stanford’s Jazz Workshop, and Idyllwild Arts Academy. These programs not only enhanced my skills in improvisation but also allowed me to perform with talented musicians from around the world in combos and top-tier big bands directed by renowned professionals such as John Daversa, Marshall Hawkins, and Wayne Bergeron. On the classical side, my school’s nationally ranked program challenged me with some of the finest literature, such as Music for Prague 1968, The Traveler, and Symphony in Bb. As a committed musician, I believe that music is a global language that has the ability to motivate, connect, and bring significant change in the world. Since many studies have shown that music has a unique potential to improve emotional well-being and reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, I wish to recognize mental health as a serious social issue. Through my compositions, I hope to produce works that offer a sound haven for people going through tough times in addition to increasing awareness of mental health issues. Beyond only creating original music, I hope to work with mental health groups to provide modern music therapy programs to communities and schools. Both healing listening sessions and active music-making would be incorporated into these programs, giving students and community members useful skills for self-expression and emotional control. I feel driven to provide that same sense of optimism and connection with others since I have personally experienced the transformational power of music during difficult times. The beauty of music is its capacity to cut beyond social linguistics, and cultural boundaries. It creates settings where individuals may feel supported and understood without using words. In order to produce open parts that speak to everyone from all walks of life, I seek to provide a variety of musical traditions and modern aspects into my work. Through creative expression, this method removes the judgment that is associated with discussing mental health issues and promotes understanding. Using these ideas, I envision building a supportive network where music becomes a tool for both personal healing and a communication system of pressing society issues. In the end, I believe music can be a powerful support for positive transformation in our communities. I am deeply committed to using my talents and artistic vision to make a meaningful contribution to society, one note at a time.
Sean Kelly Memorial Scholarship
My passion for jazz truly developed through opportunities outside of school, as my program focused primarily on classical music. I applied for and received scholarships to attend prestigious summer jazz workshops, including UCLA’s Jazz Intensive, Stanford’s Jazz Workshop, and Idyllwild Arts Academy. These programs not only enhanced my skills in improvisation but also allowed me to perform with talented musicians from around the world in combos and top-tier big bands directed by renowned professionals such as John Daversa, Marshall Hawkins, and Wayne Bergeron. On the classical side, my school’s nationally ranked program challenged me with some of the finest literature, such as Music for Prague 1968, The Traveler, and Symphony in Bb. As a committed musician, I believe that music is a global language that has the ability to motivate, connect, and bring significant change in the world. Since many studies have shown that music has a unique potential to improve emotional well-being and reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, I wish to recognize mental health as a serious social issue. Through my compositions, I hope to produce works that offer a sound haven for people going through tough times in addition to increasing awareness of mental health issues. Beyond only creating original music, I hope to work with mental health groups to provide modern music therapy programs to communities and schools. Both healing listening sessions and active music-making would be incorporated into these programs, giving students and community members useful skills for self-expression and emotional control. I feel driven to provide that same sense of optimism and connection with others since I have personally experienced the transformational power of music during difficult times. The beauty of music is its capacity to cut beyond social linguistics, and cultural boundaries. It creates settings where individuals may feel supported and understood without using words. In order to produce open parts that speak to everyone from all walks of life, I seek to provide a variety of musical traditions and modern aspects into my work. Through creative expression, this method removes the judgment that is associated with discussing mental health issues and promotes understanding. Using these ideas, I envision building a supportive network where music becomes a tool for both personal healing and a communication system of pressing society issues. In the end, I believe music can be a powerful support for positive transformation in our communities. I am deeply committed to using my talents and artistic vision to make a meaningful contribution to society, one note at a time.
Willie Mae Rawls Scholarship
My passion for jazz truly developed through opportunities outside of school, as my program focused primarily on classical music. I applied for and received scholarships to attend prestigious summer jazz workshops, including UCLA’s Jazz Intensive, Stanford’s Jazz Workshop, and Idyllwild Arts Academy. These programs not only enhanced my skills in improvisation but also allowed me to perform with talented musicians from around the world in combos and top-tier big bands directed by renowned professionals such as John Daversa, Marshall Hawkins, and Wayne Bergeron. On the classical side, my school’s nationally ranked program challenged me with some of the finest literature, such as Music for Prague 1968, The Traveler, and Symphony in Bb. As a committed musician, I believe that music is a global language that has the ability to motivate, connect, and bring significant change in the world. Since many studies have shown that music has a unique potential to improve emotional well-being and reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, I wish to recognize mental health as a serious social issue. Through my compositions, I hope to produce works that offer a sound haven for people going through tough times in addition to increasing awareness of mental health issues. Beyond only creating original music, I hope to work with mental health groups to provide modern music therapy programs to communities and schools. Both healing listening sessions and active music-making would be incorporated into these programs, giving students and community members useful skills for self-expression and emotional control. I feel driven to provide that same sense of optimism and connection with others since I have personally experienced the transformational power of music during difficult times. The beauty of music is its capacity to cut beyond social linguistics, and cultural boundaries. It creates settings where individuals may feel supported and understood without using words. In order to produce open parts that speak to everyone from all walks of life, I seek to provide a variety of musical traditions and modern aspects into my work. Through creative expression, this method removes the judgment that is associated with discussing mental health issues and promotes understanding. Using these ideas, I envision building a supportive network where music becomes a tool for both personal healing and a communication system of pressing society issues. In the end, I believe music can be a powerful support for positive transformation in our communities. I am deeply committed to using my talents and artistic vision to make a meaningful contribution to society, one note at a time.
Mark Green Memorial Scholarship
My musical background began in 4th or 5th grade when I started playing the trumpet, fostering an early love for classical music. I continued with band through school, achieving significant milestones such as auditioning for and earning a spot in the Classical Trumpet All-State ensemble in 8th grade, as well as during my junior and senior years of high school. I began my journey at Evans Ranch Elementary, where band was only in its second year of existence in my small-town school. Later, I transferred to a more arts-focused district, where I expanded my experience by playing in classical ensembles and joining a small after-school jazz big band for fun. In high school, I joined both jazz band and orchestra, quickly advancing to the top band for classical and the second highest for jazz as a freshman.
My passion for jazz truly developed through opportunities outside of school, as my program focused primarily on classical music. I applied for and received scholarships to attend prestigious summer jazz workshops, including UCLA’s Jazz Intensive, Stanford’s Jazz Workshop, and Idyllwild Arts Academy. These programs not only enhanced my skills in improvisation but also allowed me to perform with talented musicians from around the world in combos and top-tier big bands directed by renowned professionals such as John Daversa, Marshall Hawkins, and Wayne Bergeron. On the classical side, my school’s nationally ranked program challenged me with some of the finest literature, such as Music for Prague 1968, The Traveler, and Symphony in Bb.
As a committed musician, I believe that music is a global language that has the ability to motivate, connect, and bring significant change in the world. Since many studies have shown that music has a unique potential to improve emotional well-being and reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, I wish to recognize mental health as a serious social issue. Through my compositions, I hope to produce works that offer a sound haven for people going through tough times in addition to increasing awareness of mental health issues. Beyond only creating original music, I hope to work with mental health groups to provide modern music therapy programs to communities and schools. Both healing listening sessions and active music-making would be incorporated into these programs, giving students and community members useful skills for self-expression and emotional control. I feel driven to provide that same sense of optimism and connection with others since I have personally experienced the transformational power of music during difficult times. The beauty of music is its capacity to cut beyond social linguistics, and cultural boundaries. It creates settings where individuals may feel supported and understood without using words. In order to produce open parts that speak to everyone from all walks of life, I seek to provide a variety of musical traditions and modern aspects into my work. Through creative expression, this method removes the judgment that is associated with discussing mental health issues and promotes understanding. Using these ideas, I envision building a supportive network where music becomes a tool for both personal healing and a communication system of pressing society issues. In the end, I believe music can be a powerful support for positive transformation in our communities. I am deeply committed to using my talents and artistic vision to make a meaningful contribution to society, one note at a time.
Churchill Family Positive Change Scholarship
Since a kid I realized how unifying and special music is, I see music as a universal language with the power to connect people of various backgrounds through each person's creativity. One societal issue I continue to address is mental health, as music has been proven to reduce stress and provide a safe space for individuals who need a helping hand. I plan to compose pieces that raise awareness about mental health struggles to connect with each and every audience member, bringing true soul to music.
As a committed musician, I believe that music is a global language that has the ability to motivate, connect, and bring significant change in the world. Since many studies have shown that music has a unique potential to improve emotional well-being and reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, I wish to recognize mental health as a serious social issue. Through my compositions, I hope to produce works that offer a sound haven for people going through tough times in addition to increasing awareness of mental health issues. Beyond only creating original music, I hope to work with mental health groups to provide modern music therapy programs to communities and schools. Both healing listening sessions and active music-making would be incorporated into these programs, giving students and community members useful skills for self-expression and emotional control. I feel driven to provide that same sense of optimism and connection with others since I have personally experienced the transformational power of music during difficult times. The beauty of music is its capacity to cut beyond social linguistics, and cultural boundaries. It creates settings where individuals may feel supported and understood without using words. In order to produce open parts that speak to everyone from all walks of life, I seek to provide a variety of musical traditions and modern aspects into my work. Through creative expression, this method removes the judgment that is associated with discussing mental health issues and promotes understanding. Using these ideas, I envision building a supportive network where music becomes a tool for both personal healing and a communication system of pressing society issues. In the end, I believe music can be a powerful support for positive transformation in our communities. I am deeply committed to using my talents and artistic vision to make a meaningful contribution to society, one note at a time.
My long-term goal is to become a professor of jazz, where I can give back to the community by mentoring aspiring musicians and fostering a love for this incredible genre. I am passionate about building upon the traditions of jazz while innovating new contemporary movements that ensure its relevance for future generations. By combining my education with my creativity and dedication, I aim to contribute to the ongoing evolution of jazz as both an artist and an educator.
Charli XCX brat Fan Scholarship
As a committed musician, I believe that music is a global language that has the ability to motivate, connect, and bring significant change in the world. Since many studies have shown that music has a unique potential to improve emotional well-being and reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, I wish to recognize mental health as a serious social issue. Through my compositions, I hope to produce works that offer a sound haven for people going through tough times in addition to increasing awareness of mental health issues. Beyond only creating original music, I hope to work with mental health groups to provide modern music therapy programs to communities and schools. Both healing listening sessions and active music-making would be incorporated into these programs, giving students and community members useful skills for self-expression and emotional control. I feel driven to provide that same sense of optimism and connection with others since I have personally experienced the transformational power of music during difficult times. The beauty of music is its capacity to cut beyond social linguistics, and cultural boundaries. It creates settings where individuals may feel supported and understood without using words. In order to produce open parts that speak to everyone from all walks of life, I seek to provide a variety of musical traditions and modern aspects into my work. Through creative expression, this method removes the judgment that is associated with discussing mental health issues and promotes understanding. Using these ideas, I envision building a supportive network where music becomes a tool for both personal healing and a communication system of pressing society issues. In the end, I believe music can be a powerful support for positive transformation in our communities. I am deeply committed to using my talents and artistic vision to make a meaningful contribution to society, one note at a time.
Billie Eilish Fan Scholarship
As a committed musician, I believe that music is a global language that has the ability to motivate, connect, and bring significant change in the world. Since many studies have shown that music has a unique potential to improve emotional well-being and reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, I wish to recognize mental health as a serious social issue. Through my compositions, I hope to produce works that offer a sound haven for people going through tough times in addition to increasing awareness of mental health issues. Beyond only creating original music, I hope to work with mental health groups to provide modern music therapy programs to communities and schools. Both healing listening sessions and active music-making would be incorporated into these programs, giving students and community members useful skills for self-expression and emotional control. I feel driven to provide that same sense of optimism and connection with others since I have personally experienced the transformational power of music during difficult times. The beauty of music is its capacity to cut beyond social linguistics, and cultural boundaries. It creates settings where individuals may feel supported and understood without using words. In order to produce open parts that speak to everyone from all walks of life, I seek to provide a variety of musical traditions and modern aspects into my work. Through creative expression, this method removes the judgment that is associated with discussing mental health issues and promotes understanding. Using these ideas, I envision building a supportive network where music becomes a tool for both personal healing and a communication system of pressing society issues. In the end, I believe music can be a powerful support for positive transformation in our communities. I am deeply committed to using my talents and artistic vision to make a meaningful contribution to society, one note at a time.
Chappell Roan Superfan Scholarship
As a committed musician, I believe that music is a global language that has the ability to motivate, connect, and bring significant change in the world. Since many studies have shown that music has a unique potential to improve emotional well-being and reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, I wish to recognize mental health as a serious social issue. Through my compositions, I hope to produce works that offer a sound haven for people going through tough times in addition to increasing awareness of mental health issues. Beyond only creating original music, I hope to work with mental health groups to provide modern music therapy programs to communities and schools. Both healing listening sessions and active music-making would be incorporated into these programs, giving students and community members useful skills for self-expression and emotional control. I feel driven to provide that same sense of optimism and connection with others since I have personally experienced the transformational power of music during difficult times. The beauty of music is its capacity to cut beyond social linguistics, and cultural boundaries. It creates settings where individuals may feel supported and understood without using words. In order to produce open parts that speak to everyone from all walks of life, I seek to provide a variety of musical traditions and modern aspects into my work. Through creative expression, this method removes the judgment that is associated with discussing mental health issues and promotes understanding. Using these ideas, I envision building a supportive network where music becomes a tool for both personal healing and a communication system of pressing society issues. In the end, I believe music can be a powerful support for positive transformation in our communities. I am deeply committed to using my talents and artistic vision to make a meaningful contribution to society, one note at a time.
Marshall and Dorothy Smith Music Scholarship
My musical background began in 4th or 5th grade when I started playing the trumpet, fostering an early love for classical music. I continued with band through school, achieving significant milestones such as auditioning for and earning a spot in the Classical Trumpet All-State ensemble in 8th grade, as well as during my junior and senior years of high school. I began my journey at Evans Ranch Elementary, where band was only in its second year of existence in my small-town school. Later, I transferred to a more arts-focused district, where I expanded my experience by playing in classical ensembles and joining a small after-school jazz big band for fun. In high school, I joined both jazz band and orchestra, quickly advancing to the top band for classical and the second highest for jazz as a freshman.
My passion for jazz truly developed through opportunities outside of school, as my program focused primarily on classical music. I applied for and received scholarships to attend prestigious summer jazz workshops, including UCLA’s Jazz Intensive, Stanford’s Jazz Workshop, and Idyllwild Arts Academy. These programs not only enhanced my skills in improvisation but also allowed me to perform with talented musicians from around the world in combos and top-tier big bands directed by renowned professionals such as John Daversa, Marshall Hawkins, and Wayne Bergeron. On the classical side, my school’s nationally ranked program challenged me with some of the finest literature, such as Music for Prague 1968, The Traveler, and Symphony in Bb.
As someone who is relatively new to this art form, I am eager to explore its historical roots, global influences, and the technical fundamentals that will help me grow as a musician. I look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with diverse peers and learn from exceptional faculty who can challenge and inspire me to reach new heights in my creative journey. Ultimately, I hope the program will shape me into a well-rounded jazz musician, capable of contributing to the art form’s preservation and innovation.
My long-term goal is to become a professor of jazz, where I can give back to the community by mentoring aspiring musicians and fostering a love for this incredible genre. I am passionate about building upon the traditions of jazz while innovating new contemporary movements that ensure its relevance for future generations. By combining my education with my creativity and dedication, I aim to contribute to the ongoing evolution of jazz as both an artist and an educator.
Hot Jazz Jubilee Music Scholarship
My musical background began in 4th or 5th grade when I started playing the trumpet, fostering an early love for classical music. I continued with band through school, achieving significant milestones such as auditioning for and earning a spot in the Classical Trumpet All-State ensemble in 8th grade, as well as during my junior and senior years of high school. I began my journey at Evans Ranch Elementary, where band was only in its second year of existence in my small-town school. Later, I transferred to a more arts-focused district, where I expanded my experience by playing in classical ensembles and joining a small after-school jazz big band for fun. In high school, I joined both jazz band and orchestra, quickly advancing to the top band for classical and the second highest for jazz as a freshman.
My passion for jazz truly developed through opportunities outside of school, as my program focused primarily on classical music. I applied for and received scholarships to attend prestigious summer jazz workshops, including UCLA’s Jazz Intensive, Stanford’s Jazz Workshop, and Idyllwild Arts Academy. These programs not only enhanced my skills in improvisation but also allowed me to perform with talented musicians from around the world in combos and top-tier big bands directed by renowned professionals such as John Daversa, Marshall Hawkins, and Wayne Bergeron. On the classical side, my school’s nationally ranked program challenged me with some of the finest literature, such as Music for Prague 1968, The Traveler, and Symphony in Bb.
As someone who is relatively new to this art form, I am eager to explore its historical roots, global influences, and the technical fundamentals that will help me grow as a musician. I look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with diverse peers and learn from exceptional faculty who can challenge and inspire me to reach new heights in my creative journey. Ultimately, I hope the program will shape me into a well-rounded jazz musician, capable of contributing to the art form’s preservation and innovation.
My long-term goal is to become a professor of jazz, where I can give back to the community by mentoring aspiring musicians and fostering a love for this incredible genre. I am passionate about building upon the traditions of jazz while innovating new contemporary movements that ensure its relevance for future generations. By combining my education with my creativity and dedication, I aim to contribute to the ongoing evolution of jazz as both an artist and an educator.