November SOTM: Isabella Budasz

This month, we’re excited to highlight a musician who is heavily dedicated and a great role model in orchestra. Our November Student of the Month is sophomore Isabella Budasz, the principal cellist for Symphony Orchestra!

Isabella began playing the cello at just four years old, guided by her music teacher parents. When her mom asked her to choose between piano, violin, or cello, she picked the cello because “it just looked the prettiest,” a choice that led to more than 12 years of music playing. She joined the orchestra in middle school simply because it seemed like the most fun elective, and it quickly became a significant part of her life.

Outside of music, Isabella enjoys running and karate, but orchestra remains her favorite activity. She especially loves the orchestra for the instrumental harmonies and the exciting trips, including the New York Trip she attended last year. She is also looking forward to the San Diego trip in the spring. 

After so many years of playing, she says, “Music has taught me to keep going and never give up.” Beyond improving her skills, Isabella feels that playing the cello and being in orchestra have helped her become more confident and a better leader. 

Isabella also enjoys playing duets with her dad on the lute or classical guitar, her brother on piano, and she even plays in an outside chamber group, Crescendo Young Musicians Guild.

We’re excited to recognize Isabella as our SOTM, and we can’t wait to see all the wonderful things she continues to accomplish in and beyond orchestra. Her dedication and joy for music truly inspire everyone around her!