Meet our Award-winning Saxophonist!

CIS is proud to witness our students develop their talents and passion. From a beginner performing at school events and community concerts, Howard is extremely proud to make his mark on the professional stage.

The International Youth Music and Arts Festival is co-hosted by Shenzhen Conservatory, Shenzhen Bao’an Conservatory and the International Arts and Cultural Development Association. The judging team for the finale consisted of professional musicians such as the Chief Director of Shenzhen Conservatory.

Howard shared his excitement with everyone right after his big win! Here’s what he had to say:

“I want to sincerely thank CIS for providing an amazing music program, and my music teacher Ms. Lelia Lemay, for her unwavering support. CIS’ initiatives have developed so many young musicians, and I'm just one of them. To be awarded a prize is an honor for both CIS and myself.

As one of the earliest members of our CIS Wind Orchestra Program, it was my great honor to be on the stage competing with others, wearing my CIS blazer and playing a saxophone from CIS. I never thought I would be able to go this far when I first joined our Wind Band. However, over the last three years, my music teacher Ms. Lemay instilled in my heart a deep love of music. Like many others, I had zero experience playing the saxophone, but she helped me step-by-step and gave me the skills and tools that I need to succeed. I would say that if it was not for her help, I would have never come this far and be so passionate about playing the saxophone.

As one of the contestants, my goal was to enrich my knowledge of music by listening to all the other musicians, and by listening to professional students from Xinghai Conservatory. It's totally a different world out there on stage, and I learnt the differences between professional musicians and myself. Now, I can practice harder, learn from the best and go further in the world of classical music. Thank you, CIS!”

And thank you, Howard, for sharing your passion and music with the CIS community.

Hearing Howard’s music in our hallways and music studio is a source of inspiration for many of our young CIS artistes, and a clear sign that with hard work and determination, anything is possible. Howard’s story is just one of many success stories here at CIS and we are very proud that our holistic and student-focused approach to education truly encourages growth, individuality and personal excellence.