This year, we bid a bittersweet farewell to nine graduating seniors. Please take a moment to read about our graduates, and join us in wishing them all the best. We will miss you. Keep in touch, and keep on making music!
Ollie Barrood
Graduating from Montgomery High School
Attending the Berklee College Of Music, majoring in Music Business
“I studied most of my career under Tracy Grandy, but since she moved to California, I have been studying with Margie Nelson. I’ve learned how to make music speak feelings and get points across stronger than words can.”
Britney Chen
Graduating from Stuart Country Day School of Sacred Heart
Attending Emory University, majoring in Biology
“I started piano very late but I still accomplished something. It’s never too late to start! I used to be afraid of piano lessons. NSMS makes everything enjoyable.”
Amish Daga
Graduating from West Windsor-Plainsboro High School South
Attending The Ohio State University, majoring in Civil Engineering
“I have learned that not everything comes from natural talent, there are always some things you can practice and improve on.”
"Make sure you practice at least 15 minutes a day" - Mr. Groch
Ava Fong
Graduating from Princeton Day School
Attending Brown University, major undecided
“I've learned so many things in my piano studies that have vastly changed many areas of my own life. I've been able to connect with so many other people because of my musical abilities that I attribute to my piano studies. I've been part of chamber groups, songwriting groups, and bands because of how my piano studies have made me so musically proficient. I'm so grateful that I've continued with my piano studies all these years because not only has it given me a creative and emotional outlet, but because it has given me so many opportunities to surround myself with awesome, musical people.
Dr. Koshoeva, Mr. Blickenstaff, and Dr. Louw have been super supportive teachers and mentors for me over the years, and I wouldn't be the person I am today without them.”
Ada Glinski
Graduating from South Brunswick High School
Attending Barnard College of Columbia University, majoring in Computer Science or Engineering
“Piano study has taught me that you can achieve your goals through hard work and practice. Since I was six, Ms. Triandafillou has guided me on my musical journey. She is a remarkable teacher whose encouragement, dedication, and technical guidance have nurtured my love for piano. Beyond music, she has influenced my character, instilling passion and resilience in me.”
Nishka Mehta
Graduating from South Brunswick High School
Attending the Stevens Institute of Technology, majoring in Business
“There is always beauty in learning. NSMS is filled with so many incredible and talented teachers. I am especially thankful that I had the privilege to study under Mrs. Glennon.”
Sophie Miller
Graduating from Princeton High School
Attending Northwestern University, majoring in Biology, with a possible minor in History
“From piano, I’ve learned the importance of being pushed out of your comfort zone. Learning a more difficult piece then you believe you can handle makes it all the more satisfying when it is perfected, and the sense of accomplishment is like no other. It has inspired me to try new things, like rock climbing, and push myself in academics and fitness. Piano has also fostered my creativity through musicality. This translates into new, unique ideas blossoming in my mind, and inspiring artwork. Combining music and art creates a beautiful product, and it kept me entertained in the pandemic and is a source of calm for me today. Piano has been a part of my life for many years, and I appreciate all that it has given me.
Ms. Christano has been kind, patient, and encouraging, and from her, I have learned valuable lessons about musicality but the importance of conveying the story of the music itself and how that makes a piece special. I appreciate all the time I have been able to spend learning with her, and I hope to use the tools she has provided as I venture off into new musical territory in the future.”
Prisha Nishar
Graduating from South Brunswick High School
Attending the University of Maryland College Park, majoring in Bioengineering
“Piano taught me how to approach problems, and by extension how to approach life. It taught me that when in doubt, to slow down. To take the pieces one by one, and build from the ground up. And that hard work would come to fruition eventually.
NSMS always encouraged the best in me. It encouraged my creativity through my compositions, my development on the piano, and my growth as a person. I've been blessed with some of the best teachers I have ever had and am beyond grateful for my time here.”
Alexey Rafikov
Graduating from West Windsor-Plainsboro High School North
Attending Rutgers University, majoring in Civil Engineering
“Dedication will always yield results, no matter the setbacks. Practice makes perfect. NSMS has been an incredibly important part of my life, and my teacher, Dr. Louw, has been an incredible mentor and figure that I will always look up to.”
Comments