1. What is your name and how old are you?
My name is Matias Velasquez, and I am 13 years old.
2. How long have you been studying piano and how old were you when you first started?
I’ve been studying piano for over 7 years now, and I started when I was 5 years old. Many of the teachers back on the East Coast didn’t think that it was a good idea to start me at such a young age, but one of the teachers did. I apparently sat through that first one hour class, and it all started from there.
3. What instrument are you studying now, and who is your teacher?
I am practicing the piano, and my teacher is Dr. Illias. He’s been a great mentor for me for the three years that I’ve worked with him. He allows me to make choices about my music and what pieces or composers I want to explore or learn about. We do a lot of music theory, and also work on the pieces that I’m preparing for upcoming recitals.
4. What pieces are you currently working on?
I am working on some pieces of my own, and some classical works. I played “Come on over” in the past recital, which I made up during a school music class. I am also working on the Gnossienne No.1 by Eric Satie, and the Lacrimosa by Mozart.
5. How often do you practice?
Every day for at least 45 mins. I also spend time listening to songs and trying to play them on the piano.
6. Tell us about some of your recent accomplishments.
I was the music director for my school’s theater production, and I conducted the orchestra for a different play. I loved conducting, but it took me a while to get better at it! I composed the overture for the play that I was music director for, and I really enjoyed that experience.
6. Why do you love music?
Music is an essential part of my life. It is something that I can go to if I’m bored, stressed, or just in the mood to play the piano. I want to improve my technique, make it as good as possible and continue growing.
7. What are some things you like doing besides music?
I like playing soccer, caring for my saltwater fish tank, and playing basketball. I also love reading and playing video games.
8. What do you want to be when you grow up?
I think that one never stops growing. You always keep improving and becoming a better version of yourself. I can do lots of different things and I will always continue to follow my interests. If I had to give some advice to others about music, I would just tell them to keep practicing deliberately, and you can achieve whatever you want to play, write, or sing.