Eileen Perez Returns from Berklee with New Confidence and Connections
Updated: 6 days ago
For OCCTAC student Eileen Perez, attending the Aspire Program at Berklee in Boston brought more than an opportunity to develop her musical skills. It introduced her to new ways of collaborating, friendships with fellow musicians and a growing confidence in her ability to connect through music.
Following her earlier story about preparing for the experience, Eileen is sharing what she learned and how she hopes to carry those lessons into her life as a college student.
Among her favorite memories was meeting her personal instructor, whose energy and welcoming approach helped her feel comfortable opening up and looking forward to their time together. Outside of instruction, she formed a close friendship with her roommate. They bought food for one another and explored Boston together.
Musically, the experience challenged Eileen to move beyond familiar routines. In high school, she had played in three bands with the same musicians. At Berklee, she had to adapt to unfamiliar players, different communication styles and new approaches to musical cues.
She learned to pay closer attention to the musician carrying the melody or taking a solo, and to communicate more clearly when it was her turn to lead. Giving musical and physical cues became an important way to help fellow players anticipate transitions.
Building friendships was initially her biggest challenge. Surrounded by people from different parts of the world, she sometimes felt intimidated. Over time, she became more comfortable starting conversations, asking other musicians for advice and getting to know her classmates. By the end, she had made many new friends.
Now in college, Eileen hopes to audition for her school’s jazz band and meet musicians she can also play with outside of class. While pursuing other studies, she wants music to remain a meaningful hobby and a way to build lasting connections.
“Thank you for believing in me and my skills, for teaching me and letting me chase music,” Eileen shared.
Community Support Made the Journey Possible
Eileen was nominated by OCCTAC, whose Preparatory Arts Music Department covered her round-trip airfare, transportation, hotel lodging and meals before she checked into the Aspire Program. We thank Reaching Youth Through Music Opportunities (RYTMO) and Mike Anderson for helping make this opportunity possible.
Thanks to the generosity of the SPA Education and Music Foundation, RYTMO provided funding for Eileen’s room and board throughout the Aspire Program.
Her tuition was offered at no cost through RYTMO’s membership in the Berklee City Music Network (BCMN).
Eileen also thanked Mrs. Phoebe for offering the opportunity and accompanying her; her band director, who helped film her audition; the peer who played with her and encouraged her; and her family for supporting her throughout the journey.
Her reflections show how access to a new musical experience can encourage growth beyond performance, helping a young person practice collaboration, navigate uncertainty and find a sense of belonging.
To learn more about OCCTAC and support opportunities for students like Eileen, visit occtac.org. Learn more about RYTMO at rytmo.org.
Help More Students Discover Their Potential
Your generosity creates opportunities for students like Eileen to grow, build confidence and connect through music.
About OCCTAC: Orange County Children's Therapeutic Arts Center (OCCTAC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering individuals and communities through arts education, therapeutic services, and community outreach. Since its inception in 2000, OCCTAC has been providing vital resources and support to underserved populations in Orange County, assisting them in unlocking their full potential and achieving their goals.
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