Class of 2020 Senior Spotlight!
Adison Granger, cello
Winooski High
How did you choose your instrument over all of the others?
In the fifth grade, we were given the opportunity to learn how to play an instrument. Most people were choosing the violin, but I personally enjoyed the sound of the cello.
What was your biggest musical challenge & how did you overcome it?
As a full-time early college student, it is very difficult to find the time to practice. However, I make sure to get my homework done as soon as possible so I am able to get in at least twenty minutes of practice time.
What advice would you give to younger music students as they strive to build their skills?
Enjoy the instrument that you are playing and be sure to get private lessons early on.
What is your favorite VYOA memory?
I have always enjoyed participating in the school tours. I love seeing the faces on all the young children when they recognize a song that they enjoy or when they show their enthusiasm for wanting to learn a new instrument.
Apart from orchestral music, what other kinds of music do you listen to? Do other genres influence what you hear in orchestral music?
I listen to anything and everything, but some of my favorite genres are death metal, funk, hardcore punk, progressive rock, new wave, and synthpop. Being able to appreciate all kinds of music allows you to expand your horizons and better yourself as a musician.
What other activities do you participate in?
For the past few years, I have participated in Upward Bound. It is a program for first-generation college students to help provide us with the knowledge and experience we need to prepare for college.
What college or university do you hope to attend next year?
Saint Michael’s College
What do you plan to study in college and how did you make your choice?
I plan on majoring in computer information systems and minoring in music. Through Upward Bound, I was given the opportunity to participate in a class called Teaching Through Technology. This is where I realized that I enjoy working with computers. I am currently taking an intro to computer science class at the Community College of Vermont.
Congratulations Adison! You have been a wonderful mentor to our younger string students and we will miss your generous spirit.
