#MSMspotlight

Conversations about creativity, inspiration, and life at MSM.

“NINE is a truly impactful story about making art and the sacrifices that come with the things that make artists brilliant. You don't want to miss it! ”

Xavier Cornell (BM '25), Musical Theatre

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“Freshman year has been an incredible experience. It’s been everything I anticipated and more.”

Carlen Gong (BM '27), MSM Classical Guitar

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“By joining the Black Student Union, you’re not just becoming part of a student organization; you’re joining a supportive network of peers who share similar experiences, challenges, and triumphs. It’s an opportunity to amplify your voice, advocate for change, and contribute to a more inclusive campus environment.”

Ja'hlil Pembleton (BM '25), Vocal Arts

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“I love the supportive faculty who instill in us their passion and devotion to the challenging art form and career we have decided to pursue.”

Nino de la Torre (BM '26), Musical Theatre

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“A really important part of this audition process is showing your joy and expression in this music. Make sure your love, respect, and appreciation for the material is at the forefront of what you display to the panel. ”

June Cavlan (MM '25), Jazz Voice

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“My advice for anyone auditioning for the MSM piano department would be to choose repertoire that you enjoy playing the most and shows your potential because the faculty mainly want to see your passion and your interest to take your ability to the next level. ”

Lulwa Al Shamlan (BM '23, MM '25), Classical Piano

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“During the Composition interview, you’ll be asked about your portfolio and it’s important to give meaningful answers that don’t just scratch the surface. Most importantly, show your passion for composition and music; demonstrate how you will contribute excellence to and beyond MSM. ”

Jacob Eddy (BM '27), Composition

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“Our faculty aren’t looking for who can belt the highest or who has the best grand jete. They want someone who loves what they’re doing, and who’s fierce at doing it.”

Joshua Smith (BM '27), Musical Theatre

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“Your time is what YOU make of it. Don’t be afraid to shoot for what seems impossible.”

Hannah Jones (MM '24, Vocal Arts)

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“We are so grateful for the resources, opportunities, and support that we have received as CPP students. We have learned so much about how to be champions of new music, and we have made friendships that we will carry with us far after graduation. ”

Dice Trio

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“My biggest piece of advice to anyone interested pursuing MT here at MSM is for you to be YOU.”

Niko Charney (BM '25, Musical Theatre)

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“Everyone is made differently for a reason and should take advantage of their strengths and embody them fiercely.”

Kianna Kelly-Futch (BM '24, Musical Theatre)

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“Having an open mind will really help you expand your already deep understanding of music and broaden your horizons on so many different aspects of your life! ”

Eugenia Cho (MM '25, Orchestral Violin)

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“Put passion above everything… Remember to take advantage of the city and learn from the musicians around you! Those who never leave the practice rooms will stay in the practice rooms.”

Grace Fox (BM ’25, Jazz Arts)

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“Maestro Slatkin is very patient in how he works with the orchestra, but he also has very clear ideas for each piece of music and is able to communicate those ideas to the orchestra clearly and efficiently.”

Aaron Haettenschwiller (BM '22, MM '24, Classical Oboe)

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“I feel that each moment here at MSM taught me not just about music, but also about how to have fun and enjoy what it is we do. I have always enjoyed music and performing, but with a community in which you have both grown artistically and professionally, it’s an entirely new form of gratitude.”

Jaydon T. Beleford (BM '23, Vocal Arts)

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“Always remember to surround yourself with people who constantly lift you up and encourage you. A strong support system of trustworthy friends is invaluable!”

Henry Griffin (BM '23, Vocal Arts)

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“Studying in NYC was one of my dreams since I began my musical journey. NYC is one of the cultural capitals of the world and it offers many opportunities for networking, collaboration, and exposure to different and unique styles. ”

Seolbin Oh (BM '22, MM '24, Vocal Arts)

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“We have the most knowledgeable, experienced, talented faculty and access to excellent opportunities and networks. MSM was the obvious choice for me.”

Madeleine Keane (BM '23), Vocal Arts

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“Being a recepient of this scholarship prides me and inspires me to carry on the legacy of Hugh Masekela and make proud of the work he has done for our people and heritage, which has and continues to cultivate my voice.”

Kabelo Mokhatla (BM ’24), Jazz Drums and Hugh Masekela Scholarship recipient

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“NYC is such a cool place to live as an artist citizen because you are surrounded by individuals with so much talent that the only thing to do in such an environment is to improve and grow.”

Samara Bowden (MM '24, Classical Voice)

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“I wanted to attend a school where everyone shares a common love for music. There is a beautiful uniting factor that music provides within a community that just can’t be beat.”

Brooke Barowski (BM '25), Musical Theatre

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“"Sometimes a group of strong womxn working together like this can truly save lives and careers."”

Kayla Thomas (BM '25 Classical Voice)

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“Buster Williams has played with all the great Jazz singers and has given me advice that I’ll think about every time I pick up a bass.”

Mikey Migliore (MM '23, Jazz Bass)

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“Everybody on the program is top tier, it’s just amazing what they do and the journey they take us through that reflect the times. Nina Simone says it’s an artist’s duty is to reflect their time, so it feels nice to recreate that here in 2023.”

Erika Johnson (MM '23), Vice President of MSM's Black Student Union

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“Something that is extremely valuable about the OP program is the focus on audition preparation. The best way to get better at an audition is to do more of them so our mock auditions have really helped make me more comfortable in the audition room.”

Jensen Bocco (MM '23, Orchestral Bassoon)

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“"I was absolutely astounded by the student-teacher relationships I saw when I came to visit MSM. All of the teachers had such a genuine care and connection with all their students. You couldn’t help but feel a sense of community in it all: it almost felt like a family."”

Bailey Pierce (BM '23, Musical Theatre)

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“I knew that studying at MSM would provide me many opportunities and benefits which other school may not have been able to provide as effectively. Furthermore, I wanted to experience living in the city touted as 'the greatest city in the world.'”

Varun Raja (MM '24)

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“Even though we practice a lot by ourselves, when we gather to rehearse we always have a space in which we explore, experiment, and achieve personal and professional improvement in a safe way!”

Nan Wang (MM '22, PS '23)

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“In almost any situation here at MSM, you will find somebody who's an incredible and unique musician. The opportunities to play with great musicians here are endless.”

Varun Das (PC '18, BM '22, MM '24)

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