Students spent their summers attending programs to help further develop their skills in various art forms.

Evan Rappaport ’22 took part in a jazz program at Stanford University over the summer to explore the the world of professional music and develop his skills in preparation for the upcoming school year.

During the program, Rappaport took several classes that focused on various elements of jazz music and improved his skills in both the bassoon and baritone saxophone. In addition to learning from high-level musicians, Rappaport also received the opportunity to attend several professional concerts for free.

Rappaport said he left the program with a new understanding of jazz and different approach to his own music.

“I learned to improve my style by listening to other artists,” Rappaport said. “For example, tap dancers and a rhythm guide helped me improve how I improvise using different rhythms.”

Rappaport said his participation in the program is reflective of his love of music. Since he began playing the alto saxophone in the fifth grade, Rappaport said music has become an increasingly important part of his life.

“To me, music is a fun way to express your emotions,” Rappaport said. “Everyone has a unique style, so it’s a different way to express yourself without using words.”

“To me, music is a fun way to express your emotions,” Rappaport said. “Everyone has a unique style, so it’s a different way to express yourself without using words.”