“There was a senior at Berkeley High last year who was a really great saxophonist and I really loved hearing her play. It was also really great to see a trans-woman, because there aren't many females in jazz, let alone transgender people, so it was really cool to see that.”

Nia House memories: “I learned a lot about how to be a responsible kid, how to look out for others, and how to always have grace and courtesy.”

“I've met so many new friends from Caz, and some that come from out of state. I've learned a lot of techniques on my instrument that they don't teach in school, stuff like alternate fingerings which is very useful if I need to switch between notes with ease. I like going to Caz because I'm surrounded by a hundreds of kids my age that also love playing music.”

“Happy, Special, Powerful, Emotional”-

Dashiell’s feeling when plays music.

Nia House memories: “I remember that to resolve a conflict, a teacher would tell us (students) 'we're all friends at Nia House.' I learned a lot of good morals and ideals, as well as great ways to go around the world.

At Cazadero, I went to the junior high session. Though I was a little too advanced for it, I was able to practice a lot of musical leadership skills. I also met some new people passionate about their music, like me.

Doris Fukawa is my private teacher on the violin, and though most of my passion for music has come from myself, she has provided lots of invaluable insight and inspiration.”

“When I play music, I feel extremely focused. When I practice and can confidently play the piece, I feel satisfied and accomplished.”

Nia House memories: “I remember the sandbox and wanting to eat the sand! I learned how to do basic math, reading and problem solving skills. I also learned that it is ok to ask a lot of questions.”

“Since Cazadero, I can confidently sight read low and high notes, which I couldn’t do before, I made a lot of friends and even got to hear about drama from other schools! I met a lot of cool staff and people who also play clarinet. I even got to see instruments I never saw before like the, oboe and bassoon, which I had only viewed in videos. I am now able to learn and play songs much quicker than before.
My music goal for next year is to be the 1st chair in my band, which means you are the leader of your band section.

I want to continue playing the clarinet, learn other wind instruments, and join a symphony.”

“At Nia House I learned how to be nice and not eat salt and sugar. I learned how to make friends and be clean. I also learned some math, I think. I remember soup day. The great food and all the kids having a lot of fun. I also remember making world maps and it being really fun and an exciting, special thing you get to do.”

“When I play music I feel energized, excited and happy. My favorite album is Highs and Lows and Cant Get it Back (clean) by Prince.

My musical mentor is Dashiell because he can play violin very well and he’s my older brother. I love that Dash is really nice and is accepting and he doesn’t care what I do as long as I am not dead and decaying.”