The New York Pops Education

Skitch Henderson, Founder and Music Director

ALUMNI NEWS

FREDRICK J. MIUZZO studied trumpet with Pam Flemming through our Salute to Music Program in Brooklyn. He performed at out 1998 Gala when he was 12 years old. On playing with our principal player Neil Balm he said; “I never felt more in the spotlight than I did at that moment.” Fredrick graduate from LaGuardia High School of the performing Arts and is currently a sophomore at the Manhattan School of Music majoring in classical composition. His main instrument is piano and his secondary instrument is trumpet.

Here’s what Fredrick has to say…

“My appreciation for music has grown so much since my experience of playing Carnegie Hall. I love classical and jazz music and I can’t imagine living without music being a part of my life. Music affects every aspect of my life. It consumes me and I am grateful for that. I am currently composing classical music full-time in school. I feel a great sense of pride when I hear original compositions of mine performed for the first time. I enjoy listening to the audience’s reactions. I have broadened my musical performance styles by studying jazz. I work as a jazz pianist around the city and am very interested in film scoring. I also perform with the Standard Youth Orchestra every Sunday at the Jazz Standard.”

KENNY ADVOCAT studied clarinet with Kristy Norter through our Salute to Music Program in Brooklyn. He performed at our 1999 Gala. He is currently a freshman at Kingsborough Community College.

Here’s what Kenny has to say…

"Thank you for sponsoring me in 8th grade. It made a big difference. It was the first time I got private lessons. It led me to receive the top music award at Seth Low Jr. High and I think that was one of main reasons I was accepted at LaGuardia High School of the Performing Arts, where I graduated with 6 music awards!!! I chose not to try out for music conservatories at this time as I am trying to make it in the music business industry. Currently I am exploring opportunities in radio and television. I love to compose music. I hope to write music for movies and commercials. I started taking piano lessons, which I love. I am now composing music on the piano and computer. I have composed a small symphony, concerto, duets and trios in a Baroque/Classical style. My music is a little wacky like me, but my teacher said my harmonies are very Vivaldi/Bach-like. I have been intending to explore opportunities to write music for video games. Currently I am taking music sequencing, radio communication courses and have music jobs as a clarinetist, recording other people’s recitals and auditions and also as a photographer.”

“Music keeps me busy and happy! I am shy and it (music) is a way to communicate my feelings to others and gives me the opportunity to make and meet new friends.”