Music Department

Ninth-GradeMusicLoveofLearning

YUHAN(MELODY)ZHANG

The Love of Learning Award in ninth grade goes to a student who started the violin as a middle schooler at Portledge and has developed into a fine player. Her skills on the piano make her a well-rounded musician, and she attended chamber rehearsals in the morning. It is common to see this student spending her unscheduled time practicing or accompanying other students in a practice room. She is a faithful member of the orchestra who is always counting her part and leading the harmony. This year's recipient of the ninth-grade Love of Learning Award for Music is Yuhan (Melody) Zhang.

Ninth-GradeMusicAcademicExcellence AVERYJOSHUA-TOR

With a strong desire to succeed, the student receiving the Academic Excellence Award for Music in the ninth grade has proven, time and time again, that she has the determination and skill needed to achieve her goals. Whether it be earning a perfect score on her NYSSMA solo, or mastering a song for the Portledge Music Showcase, this student always rises to the occasion. In the Solo-Chamber ensemble, she is a diligent and persistent worker who learned not only one level VI solothe highest level possible - but took it upon herself to learn a second equally difficult piece. Additionally, in order to be more well rounded, she began to explore jazz and popular music that have both added to her already strong classical music background. Without hesitation, she begins working each class as soon as she can get her hands onto a piano and her work ethic and focus inspire those around her. She has exceeded expectations at every turn this year and the Music Department proudly awards the ninth grade Academic Excellence award to Avery Joshua-Tor.