I've been playing saxophone since sixth grade, and I decided to pursue it as a career in ninth grade. What started as a simple interest soon became a deep passion, leading me to immerse myself in every musical opportunity available. Over the years, I have performed in a variety of ensembles, including saxophone quartets, saxophone ensembles, and jazz groups. I have also attended the San Diego Summer Music Institute multiple times, where I was able to refine my musicianship and gained valuable experience working with talented peers and instructors. Additionally, I have been a member of my high school's Wind Ensemble, Competitive Marching Band, and both Jazz Bands. Outside of school, I have performed with the San Diego Youth Jazz Orchestra, further expanding my experience in jazz and ensemble playing. My efforts and dedication have also led me to be accepted into the California All-Southern Honor Band, an achievement that reinforced my commitment to continuous growth as a musician. Additionally, I have been taking private lessons from a professional saxophonist for four years, leading me to gain skills and properly improve my technique with guidance from a skilled musician. After completing my undergraduate degree in music performance, I plan to take a gap year to gain additional performance experience and save money before pursuing my graduate studies. This year will allow me to refine my playing, build connections in the music world, and prepare for the rigorous demands of graduate school. I hope to use this time to perform in as many settings as possible, whether in chamber groups, solo recitals, or professional ensembles. I also hope to gain some teaching experience during this time, and during my time in college, by taking on private students. I believe that gaining real-world experience will not only strengthen my playing but also deepen my understanding of what it means to be a professional musician. Ultimately, my career goal is to become a college professor and teach classical saxophone. I am passionate about both performing and educating, and I want to inspire future generations of musicians just as my own teachers have inspired me. Teaching at the collegiate level will allow me to work with dedicated students who share my love for the instrument. In addition to teaching, I hope to remain an active performer, collaborating with other musicians and contributing to the advancement of classical saxophone repertoire. I also aspire to engage in research and pedagogy, continually exploring new ways to teach and expand the role of the saxophone in classical music. Music has profoundly shaped my life, and I cannot imagine a future without it. I'm eager to continue growing as a musician, and I look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead in my musical journey. By dedicating myself to both performance and teaching, I hope to make a meaningful impact on the world of classical saxophone and contribute to the next generation of musicians.