October SOTM: Isabelle Teng

This October, the students of orchestra have nominated a hardworking, talented violinist to be recognized for her dedication and passion for music. Please join us in congratulating freshman Isabelle (Izzy) Teng for being chosen as this school year’s second Student of the Month!

Izzy started playing violin when she was three years old, before beginning piano at age seven. She was inspired to join orchestra by her sister’s friends, from whom she first learned the joy of music, and is currently enjoying her first year of orchestra. She plans to keep playing throughout her high school career. She has completed Level 10 Certificate of Merit Exams in both piano and violin and she is currently Concert master in Concert Orchestra, our second highest orchestra. Outside of school, she is also a member of the Pasadena Youth Symphony Orchestras program. 

“Being in orchestra has definitely furthered my school experience,” Izzy said. “The field trips are really fun, and I feel like being a part of the community helps me feel more involved in school.” She enjoys the class period as a nice reprieve from her busy schedule and as a way to have fun with her friends. She also sees the valuable lessons that come with being in orchestra. 

“Learning music has also taught me leadership skills and how to work well with others,” she said. She leads her first violin section with skill and compassion, helping each musician develop their individual abilities while gaining useful skills herself. Orchestra Director Ms. Chen praises how she often goes out of her way to ask for advice on how to improve, going above and beyond to help her section.

Izzy is a member of our Orchestra’s Blog Team, helping to write articles on different events and concerts to share with students and parents. She is also part of our school’s Music Makes Miracles club, an organization that works to give back to the community by performing music and raising money for charity, as well as being a member of the Taiwanese Appreciation Club and Food Sciences club. Outside of music, she also enjoys playing volleyball, skiing, and figure skating. 

When asked for any closing thoughts, Izzy shares, “I’m excited for the Fall String Concert! We worked really hard, and I can’t wait for us to show everyone what we’ve accomplished this quarter.” 

Izzy’s classmates celebrate her for her commitment to orchestra and her contagious enthusiasm for the violin. Congratulations, Izzy, for being this October’s Student of the Month!