It is so bittersweet when students we’ve worked with for years graduate from high school. As music teachers, we have such an incredible opportunity to be mentors to kids, and see them grow up in the studio. We always hope they will visit CAM when home from college, and many do. It is such an incredible blessing to be part of our students’ lives for so many years. We feel the same about this year’s graduates. What a special group! We are incredibly proud of our Class of 2021 at CAM! Read on to learn more about each of them.
Jonathan Fasciana
Graduate of Charlotte Christian School
Jonathan writes, “During my time at CAM, I have learned from four great teachers. Mrs. Teague taught me the basics of piano. Mr. Walker helped me to learn how to play more contemporary music. Mr. Bussey helped me learn some of my favorite songs on guitar. Mrs. Restiano has helped to refine my piano skills extremely well. I would not be able to perform without her. I am grateful for all of you.”
In his piano study at CAM, Jonathan received Superior ratings in the NCFMC Piano Solo event in grades 9, 10, 11 and 12. Jonathan also received the Academy Award at Charlotte Academy of Music for Guitar. He is a member of the National Honor Society and achieved Summa Cum Laude Honor Roll each semester. He is also a National Merit Commended Student and received the AP Scholar with Distinction Award. A member of the National Spanish Honor Society, Jonathan also received the Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish. He was selected for the Gavel Award during Harvard Model Congress. Jonathan was selected for the Determination Award for varsity track. He was also selected for the Teen Volunteer Program at both Atrium and Novant Hospitals and enjoyed playing piano in the lobbies of those hospitals. Jonathan will be attending UNC Chapel Hill this fall. He plans to study chemistry and pre-medicine in college.
Lauren Sharpe
Graduate of Central Academy of Technology and Arts
Lauren writes, “Charlotte Academy of Music has greatly helped me enhance my vocal skills, but more importantly, it’s provided me with the most incredible mentor. My vocal coach, Laura Black, has guided me through so much these past 2 years. When I first came to CAM, I didn’t really know what to expect. But I ended up growing in so many ways I’d never even imagined. I learned so much about myself not just as a performer, but as a person. I learned how to be more confident, and I was inspired to make my dreams a reality. It’s been the absolute most incredible experience, and I am really going to miss it! I am so grateful for Laura and for the entire community at CAM. Thank you CAM, for teaching your students that their talent is limitless, and that anyone can achieve their dreams.”
Lauren received the CATA Academic Bars and Letters. She was also the recipient of the Innovation Drama Academy Best Actress Award. Lauren is also a Member of National Honors Society. At CATA, she served as Historian of the International Thespian Society and was a member of Student Council. Lauren will be attending Appalachian State University in the fall and majoring in Theatre Education.
Brandon Moore
Graduate of Cuthberson High School
Brandon writes, “Moving to NC seven years was a challenge in itself; but I did not want to lose what I had learned in previous piano lessons. My mom found CAM, met Ms. Phyllis, and I have been with her ever since. She continuously challenged me and forced me (in a good way) to reach my full potential. She was always interested in me as a person and not just her student. Thanks to Ms. Phyllis, hard work, and my mother’s encouragement, I earned seven years of Superior piano ratings at the NFMC Piano Festival. CAM was great experience that I won’t forget and will miss my Monday check-ins with Ms. Phyllis.”
In addition to his musical success, Brandon exceled in academics and sports as well. He was a “A” Honor Roll student at Cuthberson High School, and a “B” Honor Roll student at SPCC. In track, he was number 1 in the state of North Carolina in Hurdles, and broke two school records in the 110 and 300 Hurdles. Brandon will be attending Liberty University this fall, majoring in Exercise Science.
Hannah and Haley Allen
Graduates of Piedmont High School
Hannah writes, “I had two other piano teachers before attending CAM. I love Mrs. Connie! Mrs. Connie is the only teacher I have felt at ease with and she has taught me a lot.” Hannah will be attending South Piedmont Community College for an Associate Degree in Nursing. Her goal is to one day be a labor and delivery nurse.
Hayley writes, “I love selecting a song, printing out the music, and learning to play it on the piano. This all would not have been possible without my wonderful teacher, Mrs. Connie.” Hayley will be attending South Piedmont Community College where she will study for an Associate Degree in Nursing. Her goal is to practice nursing at a Pediatric Clinic.