Congratulations to Catherine Cox, our NEMPAC Class Student of the Month, and Walker Cox, our NEMPAC PMI Student of the Month for December! Here’s what their instructor, Manda Shepherd, had to say:

“Catherine joined the Eliot Band Program in September, but before the class began she wanted to get a head start by taking private clarinet lessons in the summer. In the short amount of time she has been playing clarinet, Catherine has surpassed expectations by performing in two recitals and with the Eliot Ensemble in addition to the Band. Her incredible drive and talent has allowed her to join the Eliot Ensemble one year early, and she plans to perform in more solo performances during the Winter and Spring Sessions! She has taken a very demanding instrument and has excelled!”

“Walker is a talented and fun pianist to work with each week. He is incredibly motivated and interested in learning new things. This past December, he had the opportunity to accompany his school’s choir in their holiday showcase. He worked incredibly hard to perfect his part and even increased his top speed to perform with the choir. In addition to his accompanying debut, Walker also premiered his first composition in two recitals! After working the entire Fall Session on his piano composition, Walker notated and played his piece Silent Movie! I can’t wait to to see how he progresses during the next two sessions and hear more of his compositions!”

Congratulations, Catherine and Walker!