Who is your favorite musician and why?
I cannot say I have a favorite. There are just too many amazing musicians out there and I usually go through listening phases; I will listen to a few artists extensively for a while and then move on to others.

Where would you like to perform someday if given the opportunity?
The Village Vanguard in NYC. All my favorite records were recorded there; it would be an honor to play there.

Why did you want to participate in Spotlight?
It is always beneficial to audition and practice being evaluated by a live audience. I participated specifically for experience and to challenge myself.

Do you have a mentor or mentors? If so, how long have you worked with them and how have they helped you in your career?
Yes. When I was a freshman at Peninsula High School, I met a couple older students who really "took me under their wings." They gave me jazz music to listen to and suggested to me things to work on. I wouldn't be playing today if they had not influenced me the way they did. Also, I have taken a few lessons with pianist Josh Nelson (who tours with Natalie Cole). He lives in the area and was always willing to help out.

What was your experience like participating in Spotlight from auditions to master classes?
It is a great experience. Everyone involved really seems to be interested in helping students develop as artists and the environment was always supportive for sure. The master class taught by John Beasley was really informative and it was nice to meet other pianists my age with similar mindsets.

What advice would you give to a student who felt they might not be ready to do spotlight?
There really is no such thing as "not ready" when it comes to performing. With spotlight, you will get a chance to perform in front of people who are there to give you advice no matter what you perform in front of them; everyone is ready to experience that. On another note, I did not have the earliest start with music and consequently, I have been trying to cover a lot in high school. I find that the situations where I am pushed beyond my current capabilities prove to be the most rewarding/beneficial. I've been in lots of situations where I definitely did not feel "ready" to perform on the level of those around me. Those moments turn out to be the most inspiring and educational and are the reason I have developed the way I have in the last 3 years.