Student of the Month: September 2024 Edition
There’s just something about music, am I right? The ability to bring seemingly dissimilar people together is really its super power. This is the opinion of both students of the month for September. Although different in age, instrument, and hobbies, their ability to sit down and openly discuss their love of music was equally charming and fun. Let’s take a look.
Owen Isenburg
Owen, age 11, not only plays guitar with Ken Easton at Rock 101, he also plays in the jazz band at school. While he enjoys discovering all types of music, he admits that - in his heart of hearts - rock music is his favorite. After listening to him play Thunderstruck by AC/DC, the esteemed reader of this blog agrees that he is indeed a rocker. Owen loves how much fun he has while playing guitar. He enjoys exploring new sounds and learning new skills.
While music plays a leading role in Owen’s life, he is also an avid soccer player. Not only that, but he loves to read fantasy books and build legos, preferably The Lord of the Rings themed sets. Owen is known for his perseverance, going all in on any activity in which he engages.
Ken Easton admires Owen’s constant positivity, in particular his ability to face all challenges with a smile. Says Ken: “Owen has made tremendous strides in his guitar playing in such a short time, and maintains an open mind and eager attitude when facing new techniques and challenges.”
Keep going, Owen! We’ll see you at Rock 101. Or on the soccer pitch. Or perhaps in Rivendell.
Eva Verardo
Eva, 16, is known around Rock 101 for her bass guitar playing; however, Eva is also skilled in violin, having played since kindergarten. While on the topic of cool tidbits, let’s include that she spends her free time playing ice hockey or rock climbing. She also enjoys drawing still life.
Eva has a strong connection to playing bass. She feels it is the backbone of any band. It secures the other instruments, giving a foundation upon which they can build. For Eva, music is a constant in life. Everything is connected to music. She finds music to be expansive, the ultimate form of creativity. Her favorite aspect of music is the ability to share it with others. There is nothing she loves more than performing and using her music to unite and to connect.
Sam applauds Eva’s desire to understand music theory. He finds Eva to be incredibly driven to continue learning and working towards mastery of her instrument. These qualities enable their weekly lessons to be very informative and also fun!
- Danielle Parker