December 2020 Member of the Month: Michelle

Who is your favourite musical artist, and why?

My favourite artist constantly changes, but the last year, I have been obsessed with Cavetown and his soft indie pop music. I am trying to listen to more music this year though (by listening to one new album a day!) so I’m sure my favourite will change again. Some musicians I will always enjoy are (in no particular order) Rex Orange County, Hozier, Bruno Major, Billie Eilish, and Harry Styles. And I can’t forget about Debussy, my favourite 20th century composer (I am a sucker for some good piano music).

Where did your passion for music stem from? Is there anyone who inspired you in particular?

Although I have been involved in music for quite some time, I think my true passion stemmed from me actually realizing just how this involvement has impacted me. From my start with group piano lessons in the basement of a community centre to joining a few choirs and musical theatre productions before high school then playing the clarinet in bands, I’ve come to realize how music has really changed my life. No one in particular comes to mind who inspired me, but meeting all my amazing teachers and like-minded individuals also involved in music has definitely contributed to this enjoyment. Through the literal blood, sweat, and tears I’ve experienced (there is a good story behind all those), I have met some of my closest friends and grew as a person by learning about communication and confidence. The realization of the positive way music had extended into all aspects of my life greatly motivated me to join TCC to try and expand my passion for music.

What have you discovered about yourself or others through working at TCC?

TCC has given me an amazing opportunity to discover the art of graphic design! Not only is there the freedom in creating new posts weekly, but I always enjoy looking at the other posts our members are making and drawing inspiration from the beautiful and unique designs.

In addition, working with TCC has contributed to my realization that some of the best things in life lie beyond your comfort zone. Joining this group has let me meet new people when it was one of my least favourite things to do, but I was surprised by the genuine connections and warmth that this community had provided.

What is the most rewarding part of working at The Cantabile Collective (TCC)?

Working with TCC has exposed me to such successful and sweet people. The conversations between everyone reveals the talent and drive every single person has in their own lives, and this exposure to the various experiences and perspectives from all over the world is truly fascinating. The entire group is incredibly supportive and welcoming, and you can tell these feelings are genuine. Seeing this community of unique people unite to create content and share information about our love for music is extremely rewarding to be a part of.

What extracurriculars (clubs, organizations, sports, etc.) are you involved in outside of TCC?

Outside of TCC, I am also involved in my high school’s band as a clarinetist, the HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) club, and I occasionally play badminton.

What are your dreams or aspirations in life?

In life, I hope to pursue something related to science as a career while finding a way to be genuinely happy with whatever I am doing. It’s hard to say anything specific, as I genuinely do not know where life will take me (but I’m excited to find out).