Amaris Martinez (Intern)

When I started playing the cello in elementary school, I didn't think it would take me so far. Eight years later, it's become a huge part of me and is my biggest passion. I started playing at Rio Calaveras Elementary School in Stockton at the age of 10. Cello was just a small hobby at the time, and I wasn't very serious about it until high school when much more opportunities came my way. While at Cesar Chavez High School, I participated in the Pacific Youth Symphony, and in the San Joaquin County High School Honor Orchestra.

As a senior in high school, I started taking my first cello lessons here at Sayla. Learning here has helped my technique improve, and has made me love playing cello so much more than before. In my first and only year as a student at Sayla, I've auditioned for UOP's Conservatory of Music and for Sacramento's Youth Symphony. I was accepted to both in the summer of 2023, but I only joined the Premier Orchestra in Sacramento and have started my college music education at San Joaquin Delta College.

Not only was I provided with valuable lessons to improve my playing skills at Sayla, but I was given the opportunity to become a cello intern for the school. As soon as I finished high school, I started observations where I learned how to teach and improve others' techniques. Over the summer, I learned how I could help other cellists improve their skills, and I officially started teaching in August of 2023. I've appreciated the help and support I've received from the other staff at Sayla, and I continue to enjoy meeting others who are apart of the community.