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Classical Kid Judging

KVNO Classical Kid Judging

Thank you for serving as a judge for the KVNO Classical Kid program! Your time and thoughtful evaluation will have a meaningful impact on young musicians who are passionate about classical music. 

Each KVNO Classical Kid is selected not only for their musical abilities but also for their dedication to classical music, passion for their craft, and well-rounded qualities. 

Thank you again for your role in recognizing and encouraging young musicians. Your support helps foster a lifelong love of classical music in these talented individuals! 

Student #1

Age: 11

Instrument: Piano

Nominee Responses

Tell us about your musical activities: what instrument(s) you play, for how long, any ensembles you perform with, etc.

I have taken piano lessons since I was four years old, and I now take weekly lessons from Mr. Ken Soh, at New Bright Future School of Music. I have an annual recital, along with other students of Mr. Soh. I also play the clarinet, and take weekly music instructions as a fifth grade student at Mary Our Queen Catholic School. Our band members perform at several concerts each year.

What is your favorite thing about playing your instrument and making music?

My favorite thing about playing the piano is that it sets me apart from others in my class in a good way. It makes me proud to be able to play for other people. I enjoy the clarinet because it is fun to play music with other instrumentalists.

Tell us about your most memorable musical experience.

My most memorable musical experience happened at one of my summer piano recitals. The recital was outdoors and I was doing a duet with my instructor when the wind blew the music off the piano. I had memorized my part, but my instructor had to keep playing a measure over and over while he was trying to get the sheet music back on the piano. After a short pause, we finished the song. Even though it was a little stressful, it all worked out.

Tell us about your other non-musical activities, including athletics, hobbies, etc.

I am active in a lot of organizations at my school, including competitive robotics, Scouts, Chess Club, soccer, and competitive mathematics. Our competitive robotics team of 5 members barely lost out of the championship (by two points) at a recent large robotics tournament, and this week, our team won first place in a robotics dual meet.

Why do you listen to Classical 90.7 KVNO?

I listen to Classical 90.7 when Mom has it on, and then mostly because I like to hear the songs of composers that I have learned about in my piano theory book. My piano teacher, Ken Soh, requires me to learn music theory, which includes lessons about classical composers.

Sponsor Responses

Please explain why music is important to your nominee.

The student is an eleven year old who truly strives for excellence in whatever they do, whether it is chess, playing the clarinet, doing math, or playing the piano. Music seems to be important to the student because it is an outlet that allows them to do something that is unique and special. They get satisfaction from performing a song well. They recognize that playing music well is a challenge and that it is something that takes discipline and effort. They enjoy being challenged as a pianist, and as a clarinetist.

Tell us about your nominee’s musical activities.

This is the first school year that the student has played a clarinet, and they are enjoying that, especially being part of a music ensemble. They have already set a goal to be in the advanced band next year, and I have no doubt that they will make that happen. The student is self-disciplined about doing their music theory assignments and their music practices every week. They learn music quickly and sight read well for someone who just turned eleven.

Briefly describe the special qualities that make your nominee a “Classical Kid.”

The student is a serious music student and a gifted musician. They approach their music studies with a positive attitude and with the self-discipline to hold themselves to a high standard. Playing classical music is part of that high standard. The student is not satisfied with mediocrity, or with being “average.” Their drive for excellence makes them a model music student. They don’t wither or complain under the demands of a perfectionist instructor. The student is determined to achieve exceptional things with their musical talents.

Piece:

Student #1 Judging Form

Student #2

Age: 13

Instrument: Cello

Nominee Responses

Tell us about your musical activities: what instrument(s) you play, for how long, any ensembles you perform with, etc.

I play the cello and clarinet and have been involved in music for several years.
Cello is my primary instrument, I have been playing for three and a half years and I regularly practice and perform.
I also play the clarinet as part of my school band and have been playing for one and a half years.

What is your favorite thing about playing your instrument and making music?

My favorite thing about playing the cello is its warm, human-like sound and how naturally it can express emotion. The cello’s range is so close to the human voice that it can sound warm and comforting. I love how a single bow stroke can communicate emotion without words like sadness, joy, excitement, or warmth and calm just through tone and phrasing.
I also love the sense of connection that comes with making music. There’s a shared moment where everyone is listening, breathing, and feeling together.

Tell us about your most memorable musical experience.

One of my most memorable musical experiences was performing in a string quartet during a Christmas concert at the church. As we prepared the music, I learned how listening closely to others was just as important as playing my own part. When we finally performed, I felt a strong sense of connection, not only with the other musicians, but also with the audience. That moment reminded me why I love making music. It created shared emotions with the audience.

Tell us about your other non-musical activities, including athletics, hobbies, etc.

I enjoy a variety of activities that challenge me both physically and creatively.
I love robotics where I enjoy designing creative, teamwork, and solving problems.
I also enjoy painting as a way to express myself visually and explore my creativity.
And I enjoy reading and listening to music to relax and explore new ideas.
Beyond that I also play fencing and tennis, which sharpens my focus and discipline.

Why do you listen to Classical 90.7 KVNO?

Because it helps me focus and stay calm while I’m relaxing. Even when I’m reading or doing homework, it helps make it easier to concentrate and think clearly.

Sponsor Responses

Please explain why music is important to your nominee.

Music helps the student express themselves and can inspire, comfort, or energize them depending on how they feel. They also loves how it creates a sense of connection, whether through performing with others or listening to music.

Tell us about your nominee’s musical activities.

The student takes private lessons at the Omaha Conservatory of Music and regularly plays in recitals there. They also frequently play at their church and with their sibling, who is a violinist. On January 24th, they will be a featured performer at the St. Cecilia’s Flower Festival as one of the Conservatory’s Merit Scholars!

Briefly describe the special qualities that make your nominee a “Classical Kid.”

The student is one of those students who always works hard and comes to their lessons well-prepared with a great attitude. They’re a joy to teach because they’re curious and eager to learn, enjoy challenges, learn their pieces to a high level, and is an all-around good person! It’s a pleasure to see them perform – they already have a lot of maturity in their playing and their hard work always shows. And of course, they love to learn new pieces of music!

Piece: Vivaldi Cello Sonata in E minor, Op 141

Student #2 Judging Form

Student #3

Age: 9

Instrument: Piano

Nominee Responses

Tell us about your musical activities: what instrument(s) you play, for how long, any ensembles you perform with, etc.

I’ve been playing the piano since I was 5 years old.

What is your favorite thing about playing your instrument and making music?

I love to play the piano because I love hearing what beautiful sounds I can make. I love to play a lot of different types of songs with varying tempos. It’s fun to practice and see how far I’ve come in learning a song and seeing what the end result is.

Tell us about your most memorable musical experience.

My most memorable musical experience is when I got to perform at the Omaha Mobile Stage Summer Talent Show. I won my age division at a local festival and made it to the finals. It was in downtown Omaha at a park and I got to play in the big bandstand. I had a lot of fun working on my piano piece in the weeks leading up to it. I played The Entertainer. It has always been a favorite song of mine and I was really excited when my teacher taught it to me. I loved playing my piece for everyone that was there. It was neat to perform on a big stage in front of so many people!

Tell us about your other non-musical activities, including athletics, hobbies, etc.

I’m in the third grade and I love reading and science. One of my favorite things to do at home is to build with Legos and perform science experiments. I also do gymnastics, tennis and baseball.

Why do you listen to Classical 90.7 KVNO?

When I was a baby, my mom would play classical music and rock me to sleep. As I’ve grown up, I’ve always asked my mom to play classical music before I go to bed because it helps me to relax and fall asleep. One of my favorite songs that I like to listen to before bed is Pachabel’s Canon.

Sponsor Responses

Please explain why music is important to your nominee.

The student has always shown a huge interest in music. As a baby, we went to Kindermusik classes where they were always jumping around to the beat of the music. They love listening to all types of music from classical composers to songs from movies we see (the Zootopia soundtrack and Bluey for sleep are their favorite to listen to) to their favorite artists like Andy Grammer and Justin Timberlake. Music is a great way for the student to express their personality because they can be a little shy but they love to entertain others with their piano and they love to sing any chance they can get.

Tell us about your nominee’s musical activities.

The student has been playing piano since theye were 5 years old. This year they participated in the Nebraska Teacher’s Association District Festival where they received a 1+ star rating and a perfect score on sight reading. They also won the age 6-8 division talent show at the Omaha Mobile Stage competition at La Vista Days. This win helped them advance to the finals where he won 3rd place in their age division.

Briefly describe the special qualities that make your nominee a “Classical Kid.”

The student is an extraordinary kid. They always go above and beyond in all that they do. The student is creative and curious, always asking questions about anything and everything from music to science to history. They are dedicated and persistent with their piano practice and always wants to keep getting better.

Piece:

Student #3 Judging Form

Student #4

Age: 11

Instrument: Piano

Nominee Responses

Tell us about your musical activities: what instrument(s) you play, for how long, any ensembles you perform with, etc.

My musical journey began at the age of seven when I started taking piano lessons at the Omaha School of Music and Dance. While I spent several years learning the Suzuki method, I have recently transitioned to a traditional style of study. In addition to the piano, I also play the soprano recorder for my school.

What is your favorite thing about playing your instrument and making music?

My favorite part of playing is making music and showing my cool skills and songs to friends and family.

Tell us about your most memorable musical experience.

Seeing Hamilton live was an incredible experience and remains my favorite musical memory to date.

Tell us about your other non-musical activities, including athletics, hobbies, etc.

I am currently doing my 5th year of dance and I am entering my 3rd year on a dance team. I do acro, hip-hop, jazz, ballet, and lyrical. I am working to get into a point class and I used to do tap. I love watching musicals like Wicked and Hamilton, as well as reading, legos, and doing crafts. I am also in my school’s student council and a couple of after-school clubs, including STEAM and art.

Why do you listen to Classical 90.7 KVNO?

I listen to Classical 90.7 KVNO to hear songs I could play someday if I practice hard enough.

Sponsor Responses

Please explain why music is important to your nominee.

The student likes the sense of achievement that comes from learning a new piece and loves to show off their musical skills for everyone.

Tell us about your nominee’s musical activities.

Besides studying piano at OSMD, the student also enjoys their school music classes and dancing.

Briefly describe the special qualities that make your nominee a “Classical Kid.”

The student enjoys playing all kinds of classical music, and is always eager to learn a new piece. They often come to their lesson having gone ahead in their book on their own over the week.

Piece: Whirling Snowflake Waltz

Student #4 Judging Form

Student #5

Age: 11

Instrument: Piano

Nominee Responses

Tell us about your musical activities: what instrument(s) you play, for how long, any ensembles you perform with, etc.

I play piano and have been playing for 3 years. I also like to play guitar. Me and a group of friends are starting a band.

What is your favorite thing about playing your instrument and making music?

I like how many different ways there are to express a song, like transposing and playing it on different instruments.

Tell us about your most memorable musical experience.

At the Holland Performing Arts Center, I watched “How to Train Your Dragon” in concert with music performed by the Omaha Symphony.

Tell us about your other non-musical activities, including athletics, hobbies, etc.

I like to play sports including lacrosse and basketball. I like to make animations and travel. I also participate in scouting.

Why do you listen to Classical 90.7 KVNO?

I like to hear how people express themselves through music.

Sponsor Responses

Please explain why music is important to your nominee.

The student loves the expressive aspects of music and how we can use music to ‘say’ things without words.

Tell us about your nominee’s musical activities.

In addition to taking piano lessons at OSMD, the student also plays guitar and is interested in composition and music theory.

Briefly describe the special qualities that make your nominee a “Classical Kid.”

The student is a really dedicated student, always asking questions about music and striving to achieve mastery of everything they play. Over the years they have developed an independent streak and often bring classical music of their own choice into lessons to learn.

Piece: Excursion

Student #5 Judging Form

Student #6

Age: 10

Instrument: Violin, Piano, Voice, Handbells

Nominee Responses

Tell us about your musical activities: what instrument(s) you play, for how long, any ensembles you perform with, etc.

I started playing violin when I was 3 years old with String Sprouts here in Omaha. After I graduated I started with my teacher, Miss Erin. I started playing piano and singing in 2 different choirs when I was 8 then I started playing handbells when I turned 10. So, almost 8 years with violin, 2 years with piano and singing, and just starting with handbells. I perform with my violin and piano studios, but also with OHBO (Omaha Homeschool Band and Orchestra) where I made concertmaster this spring. I sing with the Veritas Homeschool Choir and The Catholic Homeschool Association of Omaha (CHAO) Mass Choir. I play handbells with Veritas Homeschool Choir. In the past I have performed with OAYO’s Prelude Strings and the St. Peter’s children’s Choir.

What is your favorite thing about playing your instrument and making music?

My favorite thing about playing music and singing is when I work hard on a challenging piece and then I finally get it… then I get to share it by playing for people. When I know I did well it feels so great, and people love hearing the music. I also love playing in groups where you really get to let go and get into it with all the other players.

Tell us about your most memorable musical experience.

My most memorable musical experience was the first time I attended the Omaha Suzuki Institute. I was 7 years old and I was so excited to see so many people playing classical music. I wanted to grow up and play like the teenagers who were playing really tough and really beautiful music! I am going to the OSI for the 4th time this coming summer and I cannot wait!

Tell us about your other non-musical activities, including athletics, hobbies, etc.

My family has chickens and I help take care of them. They are so funny! Every fall I play volleyball and my sister and I play for fun year-round. Once she and I got over 500 hits in a row without letting the ball drop between us. I have 9 pen pals so I write a ton of letters. I write to my favorite authors, too, and they always write back to me. I read a lot. Last summer I read over 100 books.

Why do you listen to Classical 90.7 KVNO?

I like to learn about different kinds of music. Right now my favorite shows on KVNO are Symphonic Connections, Sunday Baroque, and Classical Guitar Alive! Vivaldi is my favorite composer because he is energetic and also exquisite. He is like hype music when it comes to classical music, and he composed cool guitar music as well as the usual classical music. I wouldn’t know about these kinds of music if I didn’t have KVNO to listen to!

Sponsor Responses

Please explain why music is important to your nominee.

The student has a big personality and big emotions, and music is their way of expressing that big self and those big emotions. Some people- especially people in our family- are verbal processors, but the student  is a “music” processor!

Tell us about your nominee’s musical activities.

The student started violin with Omaha String Sprouts at age 3 and later, when they noticed their violin teacher played the piano to accompany their students, they wanted to play piano as well. They sing in 2 choirs and play handbells. They absolutely love playing their violin in the OHBO- Omaha Homeschool Band and Orchestra. It’s their favorite activity of the week. At home, they play duets on both violin and piano with their older sibling, and the two of them help their younger sibling with their violin practice.

Briefly describe the special qualities that make your nominee a “Classical Kid.”

The student can often tell us the name of a piece of music, plus the composer and even the movement. When I ask how they knew it, they often say, “Because I heard it on KVNO!” They are like a sponge for the music they hear. When we are in the car or working on schoolwork, they turn on KVNO. When they are in bed reading or playing with their younger sibling, they turn on KVNO! We really consider KVNO to be a serious part of their education, and we do not think you could find a kid in Omaha who loves KVNO more than the student!

Piece: Gavotte

Student #6 Judging Form

Student #7

Age: 10

Instrument: Piano

Nominee Responses

Tell us about your musical activities: what instrument(s) you play, for how long, any ensembles you perform with, etc.

The instrument that I play is piano. I have played piano for 3 and a half years. I haven’t played in any ensembles yet.

What is your favorite thing about playing your instrument and making music?

My favorite thing about playing the piano is sharing my music with other people.

Tell us about your most memorable musical experience.

My most memorable musical experience was when I played an Etude in front of more than 500 people at my school talent show.

Tell us about your other non-musical activities, including athletics, hobbies, etc.

Some of my other non-musical activities include tennis, which I have played for more than 4 years, reading, making videos with my electric train, and traveling with my family.

Why do you listen to Classical 90.7 KVNO?

I listen to Classical 90.7 KVNO because I have a radio in my bedroom, and while I read, I enjoy listening to classical music, especially the kids classical music segment. I think it is really cool to listen to music from other kids my age and in my community.

Sponsor Responses

Please explain why music is important to your nominee.

The student loves playing the piano, and they look forward to playing at music events, recitals, and other music activities that are offered in my studio. They are so interested learning new pieces. They are now at the level to learn more challenging classical works. Music is important to them not only because they gravitate to it, but also they enjoy sharing their love of music with family and friends.

Tell us about your nominee’s musical activities.

The student is in an extra curriculum choir where they sing at sporting events and also do the National Anthem. Next year, when they are in 5th grade, they plan on playing a band instrument. (The school only offers this to 5th grade and up.)

Briefly describe the special qualities that make your nominee a “Classical Kid.”

The student is a wonderful and talented student. They are quite an achiever and are always prepared for their lessons. They love to prepare for music events and to receive high ratings and scores. When they are assigned required and choice pieces for auditions and music events, they work on technique, details and expression. For their level, they perform expressively and have a good ear for details. They are fun to teach and a teacher’s dream student to have.

I can see they want to follow in their older sibling’s footsteps to also achieve a high level in music. It would mean the world to them to receive this honor to be a “Classical Kid.”

Thank you for considering them for this prize and for continuing this special award to other worthy music students.

Piece: Bach Invention

Student #7 Judging Form

Student #8

Age: 11

Instrument: Piano

Nominee Responses

Tell us about your musical activities: what instrument(s) you play, for how long, any ensembles you perform with, etc.

I’ve been playing piano for six years, and violin for one and a-half year. I learn piano at Olga Conklin’s Studio, and orchestra at school.
I got interested in music at a very young age. I loved to dance and sing, which I still do. I also used to play on a small toy piano which led me to ask for piano lessons. On my fifth birthday I got my first electric piano. Recently it was updated to a nice acoustic baby grand that me and my whole family really enjoy!
For all years that I learn piano, I participate many festivals, recitals and recently won 3rd place (finalist) at the Omaha Young Artist Competition.

What is your favorite thing about playing your instrument and making music?

My favorite thing about piano is being able to express my emotions through different pieces. Entertaining and seeing reactions from listeners when I play makes me prouder of who I am. The different dynamics surprise me, it’s such a unique thing.
Music is important to me because of the progress I’ve made. Also, through learning and seeing different things in music, I can observe it in a different way that I wouldn’t be able to see if I focused somewhere else.

Tell us about your most memorable musical experience.

My most memorable experience is actually really recent, it’s the Young Artist Competition in Omaha where I played for the first time as a contestant (placed as finalist), it was quite a challenge for me.
My favorite piece is Sapphire Fountain by Melody Bober, and my favorite composer is Frederic Francois Chopin because of his way of expressing his music style. Sapphire Fountain is such a memorable piece; I feel speechless explaining it.

Tell us about your other non-musical activities, including athletics, hobbies, etc.

My hobbies outside of music are swimming and tennis which are sports I’m pretty good at. I enjoy doing them on days I’m free. I don’t think I plan on doing any other sports.

Why do you listen to Classical 90.7 KVNO?

The thing I like about KVNO is how they focus on past era pieces that use greater technical precision; and usually requires playing multiple independent melodic lines simultaneously which interests me.

Sponsor Responses

Please explain why music is important to your nominee.

For more than 6 years of working with the student, I keep being surprised with their excitement about playing piano, their focus and level of maturity quite unusual for such a young student. I believe music really speaks to their soul and they know how to express those feelings. One of the pieces attached here is the Prelude, in which you really can hear many emotions and expression.

Tell us about your nominee’s musical activities.

The student has taken piano lessons from me for 6 years; also for 1.5 years they have been in their school’s orchestra playing violin. As a pianist, they successfully participated in many Omaha and Nebraska music festivals as District, State and Young Artist, often getting the rating Superior Plus! Recently they became a finalist at the prestigious Omaha competition, the Young Artist. They worked very hard to prepare a big program for that event!

Briefly describe the special qualities that make your nominee a “Classical Kid.”

The student likes music of different periods; they are familiar with Baroque, Classical, Romantic and modern styles, knows names of main composers from the past and enjoys exploring their music. They have a good music taste: Chopin is one of their favorite composers, they played his Waltz in A minor and will play more along with masterpieces of many others.
The student always wants to go above and beyond what I expect from them; if I offer for them to choose from several pieces, they will pick up the hardest one to get challenged. That’s why they are ahead of many students of their level and experience.

Pieces: Variations and Prelude

Student #8 Judging Form

Student #9

Age: 11

Instrument: Piano, Clarinet

Nominee Responses

Tell us about your musical activities: what instrument(s) you play, for how long, any ensembles you perform with, etc.

I currently play the piano and I am working on learning the clarinet. I have been playing piano for about 4 years, and I perform in my music school’s recitals and my school’s talent shows.

What is your favorite thing about playing your instrument and making music?

I like playing the piano because I like the way that it tells a story, like you’re given a theme and then the music controls what happens in the story as the song goes on.

Tell us about your most memorable musical experience.

When I was little, I would just turn on some kind of music and just get lost in it. Usually, I’d listen to it through headphones so I would just put on the headphones and just get really lost in the music and in all the notes.

Tell us about your other non-musical activities, including athletics, hobbies, etc.

I like to play baseball, play video games, and solve Rubik’s Cubes.

Why do you listen to Classical 90.7 KVNO?

I like to listen to classical music because it makes me feel calm and relaxed. It also just is my motivation to go and play the piano.

Sponsor Responses

Please explain why music is important to your nominee.

Music is important to the student because it helps them build confidence and express themselves through the different songs they have learned to play.

Tell us about your nominee’s musical activities.

The student’s musical activities have included playing six recitals with the Omaha School of Music and Dance as well as performing in three talent shows at their elementary school. They have also been known to entertain their parents, friends, and play for them at their house parties.

Briefly describe the special qualities that make your nominee a “Classical Kid.”

The student’s special qualities include their ability to perform complex arrangements of songs like Fur Elise and Maple Leaf Rag, as well as learning to play video game songs they like by ear.

Piece: The Entertainer

Student #9 Judging Form

Student #10

Age: 10

Instrument: Piano

Nominee Responses

Tell us about your musical activities: what instrument(s) you play, for how long, any ensembles you perform with, etc.

I have been playing the piano at the Omaha School of Music & Dance for three years.

What is your favorite thing about playing your instrument and making music?

My favorite thing to do with the piano is to listen to some of my favorite musical scores and play them by ear. Some of the songs I love are Jurassic Park, Pirates of the Caribbean, and the theme by Jason. I like to challenge myself by figuring out the notes.

Tell us about your most memorable musical experience.

To date, my most memorable time playing piano was playing a rendition of the song “Demons” by Imagine Dragons at my last recital. Everyone loved my performance. I am working on Fur Elise by Beethoven right now.

Tell us about your other non-musical activities, including athletics, hobbies, etc.

When I am not playing piano, I am swimming or doing gymnastics. I also like to create things like functioning robotics with electrical circuits, and vehicles from scratch with Legos.

Why do you listen to Classical 90.7 KVNO?

I listen to classical music because it feels like a universal language that all humans understand when they listen to it. There is something timeless about classical music that helps me connect to myself.

Sponsor Responses

Please explain why music is important to your nominee.

Music is important to the student because it helps them express different types of feelings they have as well as helping them build self confidence.

Tell us about your nominee’s musical activities.

The student’s musical activities include having played four recitals with the Omaha School of Music and Dance and playing for relatives and parents’ friends for get-togethers at their house.

Briefly describe the special qualities that make your nominee a “Classical Kid.”

The student’s special musical qualities include their uncanny ability to learn some of their favorite songs just by listening to them and figuring out how to play them by ear without any sheet music.

Piece: Fur Elise

Student #10 Judging Form

Student #11

Age: 10

Instrument: Piano

Nominee Responses

Tell us about your musical activities: what instrument(s) you play, for how long, any ensembles you perform with, etc.

I play Viola, Piano, and Clarinet. I learn piano at OSMD and Viola and Clarinet at school. I’ve been learning piano for 6 years now, Viola for 2, and Clarinet for about 5 months.

What is your favorite thing about playing your instrument and making music?

I love how beautiful the piano sounds and all the songs you can play. Also because it gives me a finger workout for setting in Volleyball instead of doing “Finger Push Ups”.

Tell us about your most memorable musical experience.

When I was younger (before piano lessons) I would sit at our piano and make up my own songs and give them names. I remember one was called “Sadness”.

Tell us about your other non-musical activities, including athletics, hobbies, etc.

I also do ballet, acro, and volleyball. My hobbies are reading, drawing, and origami.

Why do you listen to Classical 90.7 KVNO?

I don’t listen to the radio, but my dad sometimes does.

Sponsor Responses

Please explain why music is important to your nominee.

I believe the student uses music as an outlet for expression and a way to exercise their high amount of energy. They love to show their bubbly personality through piano and performance, and it also brings them closer to their peers because it brings them confidence when they play music they enjoy.

Tell us about your nominee’s musical activities.

The student is very active in music and dance. They practice multiple instruments in band and orchestra, though piano is their most proficient musical skill. They love to dance as well, and sing, and all things music.

Briefly describe the special qualities that make your nominee a “Classical Kid.”

The student is passionate about all dance and music, though classical music holds a special place for them. They love to challenge themselves, and classical music is some of the most challenging music for a musician. They understand the patience and perseverance it takes to learn classical music.

Piece: Bach Minuet in G Major BWV Anh 116

Student #11 Judging Form

Student #12

Age: 9

Instrument: Piano

Nominee Responses

Tell us about your musical activities: what instrument(s) you play, for how long, any ensembles you perform with, etc.

I play the piano. I have been playing for three and a half years. I played with my dad as a duet in my last recital.

What is your favorite thing about playing your instrument and making music?

My favorite part about making music and playing my instrument is learning the music and after I’m really good at it, I love playing it and feeling the music.

Tell us about your most memorable musical experience.

My most memorable musical moment/experience was when me and my dad played our duet perfectly at our recital and was REALLY musical & magical. 

Tell us about your other non-musical activities, including athletics, hobbies, etc.

I love to read, write, play softball, and play with my friends.

Why do you listen to Classical 90.7 KVNO?

I listen to KVNO because it gets me in a musical moment and maybe even encourages me to play a new song.

Sponsor Responses

Please explain why music is important to your nominee.

I believe music is important to the student because it brings a sense of connection to loved ones and reminds them of family. Their parents seem very supportive and encouraging of their musical interests, and their parents continue to nurture a healthy desire to practice and improve their skills so they can play the advanced music they aspire to.

Tell us about your nominee’s musical activities.

Piano is the student’s only current instrument, though they pour much of their time and heart into it. They have dabbled in many different genres of piano music, including pop, classical, and jazz. 

Briefly describe the special qualities that make your nominee a “Classical Kid.”

The student has had a special penchant for classical music since their first lesson, able to recognize famous melodies such as Ode to Joy and Brahms’s Lullaby. Their ability to understand complex rhythms and love for famous world melodies continues to inspire them to practice to become the best musician they can be.

Piece: Mozart Sonata No 16 in C, first movement

Student #12 Judging Form