Priyam Pallapati:
I started playing piano 11 years ago at New Tampa Piano and Pedagogy Academy under the guidance of Dr. Jain. I continued to take lessons in Colorado then eventually returned here. I am currently studying with Mrs. Olawuni, who has helped foster my growth as a pianist. Piano has become an important outlet for creativity, discipline, and personal expression in my life. One of my favorite memories is the excitement and sense of accomplishment I felt after ending my recital for the first time. Over the years, preparing for performances and examinations has taught me confidence, perseverance, and appreciation for music. I will attend University of Florida to study computer engineering. I am grateful for all the support and opportunities the academy has provided throughout my musical journey.
Chavi Lakhotia:
I started playing piano in early elementary school and joined NTPPA in sixth grade. It turned out to be such a great decision, as the experiences and education that I’ve received have changed the way I view music. Ms. McBride and Dr. Jain (as well as Mr. Ibo and Ms. Hong) have truly helped my piano skills flourish and I cannot thank them enough. Piano has taught me so much about determination and the wonderful reward of being able to play a piece after countless hours of hard work. Some of my favorite memories of piano include performing one of my favorite pieces Summertime at a winter recital after spending almost a year learning it or chatting with Ms. McBride right before class. I’ll be attending the University of Texas at Austin, double-majoring in Environmental Science and Plan Two Honors, where I plan to continue playing piano.
Vy Doan:
I started my piano journey at 6 years old with NTPPA. I am so incredibly grateful for all the opportunities and experiences that playing piano here has given me. My instructor, Mr. Lopez, Dr. Jain, and everyone else at the academy have been incredibly welcoming and supportive. I couldn’t be more grateful. It’s hard to imagine my life without the academy, but I know I’ll be back in the future. My favorite memory at NTPPA was getting the highest state score for the level 5 RCM, and getting to play at our various recitals. Alongside that, getting to help during group classes gave me memories that I’ll cherish forever. I’ll be attending the University of Florida in the fall, double-majoring in Education Sciences and International Studies.
Ajuni Singh:
Howdy, I’m Ajuni! I’ve been playing piano for around thirteen years now, and it has been my unflagging honor to call the New Tampa Piano and Pedagogy Academy my piano home away from home. While I would argue I’m not much better than I was when I was four, my growth as a pianist could not have been possible without Mrs. Hong’s thoughtful musical musings and our unforgettable ramblings about moon cakes throughout high school, and Ms. McBride, who’s refusal to give up on me has astounded me these past months. Music isn’t what it is without you both. After today’s performance I will head as far away from Florida as possible to UCLA where I plan on majoring in psychology/neuroscience and music industry—in hopes to perpetuate the relationship I hope to always have with Music, and to one day change lives like mine was changed at this academy. Cheers!
10691 Cross Creek Blvd Tampa, FL 33647
(813) 994-2452