2018-19 Student Spotlight | Classical Instrumental Music
Young Artists Head Back To School At Louisiana’s Arts Conservatory NOCCA
Student Spotlight | Mattie Griswold
Mattie Griswold | Classical Instrumental Music
As NOCCA (New Orleans Center for Creative Arts) opens its doors for the 2018-2019 school year for hundreds of students from across the state, take a moment to learn more about a young artist who is making it happen at the prestigious arts school.
Interview with Mattie Griswold, 10th Grade Classical Instrumental Music | NOCCA Full-Day Academic Studio student from Baton Rouge, LA
How do you feel about starting your sophomore year at NOCCA, performing arts high school?
The freshman year is unstable for most, or nerve-racking at the least, so heading into a second year at a performing arts school is exciting, and a little more familiar. I’m ready to really progress in my skills and abilities at the piano, especially after covering the basics during my freshman year. Therefore, a confidence boost comes to mind when I think about the upcoming school year.
How have you started preparing for the next school year? Have you been in any performances this summer?
Shortly after the beginning of summer break, I performed in a graduating freshmen concert with several other NOCCA students, and I have been the accompanist for a few church services this summer. I have continued to take weekly lessons throughout summer with my private teacher, Dr. Birbochukov, and have been preparing a piece specifically for the fall Concerto competition.
What is your goal for the next school year? Your next three years at NOCCA?
My goal for the coming school year is a simple one: I want to grow as much as possible as a piano performer, which will probably be true for the rest of my high school years. Academically, I simply wish to continue making good grades, and better my chances of making it to a great college.
How far are you traveling to NOCCA? What makes you committed?
Just before the start of my freshman year, I moved from Baton Rouge to an apartment across the NOCCA parking lot with my father. So in a sense, I came a long way to get to NOCCA, but now I only have a short daily walk to get there. The initial move was a large financial and emotional commitment, but I’m lucky to live so close, although I still travel back and forth between cities. However, I am committed to NOCCA because of the standard that my classical instrumental arts faculty hold. With so few members, not only is there great personal attention to each student, but every student is expected to perform at a top level. It is an intense environment, and for good reason. Growth is available at every turn, and I appreciate this challenge.
How have you grown over the past year at NOCCA in your arts? How have you grown in your academics?
In classical, my previous idea of a virtuosic performer was that of loud noises and many notes played in rapid succession. That was quickly corrected, replaced by the more modest, detailed, and analyzed performer. This was a huge change, and one I am now very thankful for. Academically, I’ve become less focused on grades and more focused on giving my work a personalized taste. Creating exceptional work for the glory of God and others, as opposed to the self-satisfaction of receiving a high grade. This perspective helps when the going gets tough!