Texas Border Business
SAN JUAN, Texas – Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD (PSJA ISD) Sophomore Nicholas Lopez has been accepted to attend the prestigious Sphinx Performance Academy (SPA) at the Juilliard School of Music in New York to be held later this Summer 2022.
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Lopez, who plays the Viola for the at PSJA Early College High School Orchestra, will be fine-tuning his musical skills during the two-week session at the Juilliard School of Music, July 7-20, 2022. The curriculum during the academy will include lessons, master classes, recitals, career enrichment sessions, and mentorship tailored for students.
According to the music student, his love of music was first sparked when he joined orchestra in Austin Middle School. Currently, Lopez also plays the Violin for the PSJA ECHS Mariachi Maravilla de San Juan, recently named a State Champion after earning a Division 1 rating at the 2022 State Mariachi Festival.
“I learned everything I know about music from my middle school and high school teachers,” said Lopez who is also pursuing an Associate Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. “Music has taught me discipline and so much more. Thank you to PSJA for helping me discover my love and passion for music.”
The Sphinx Organization and Sphinx Performance Academy are collaborating with the Curtis Institute of Music, Cleveland Institute of Music, and The Juilliard School for the SPA 2022 programming. Sphinx Performance Academy (SPA) is a full-scholarship intensive summer chamber music and solo performance program with a focus on cultural diversity, for string musicians ages 11-17.
Lopez is under the musical direction of PSJA ECHS Orchestra Directors Adriana Olivan and Albert Garcia.
“Nicholas is one of the most self-motivated students I have taught,” said Olivan. “Music opens so many doors for our students and helps them discover their passions. We are so proud of Nick for this accomplishment.”
