Maryam Qudus, 19
College Student
RGVS student since September 2007

"Last time I performed live was when I was 12 years old at my 8th grade talent show. I play for friends and family here and then, but since my music is still a work in progress, I have not found the opportunity to perform. I was excited about getting into this showcase because it was something that was new to the program at RGVS and something that was fairly new for me as well. The weeks of practice and workshops was amazing. We trained with the best instructors and musicians in the bay. The best part of this was seeing how much I grew in our 8 weeks of practice. If I had to perform on stage today, I wouldn't have any worries at all, thanks to Rocío, Iari, Izetta and the wonderful band we were able to work with. "

When Maryam first came to us she had a lot of air in her voice and no power in it, yet she wanted to sing alternative rock. We worked on establishing her lower range as the basis of her voice and then taught her to expand her high range in a way that would allow her to use all the colors in her voice. The difference between how she used to sound and now is quite amazing.

Maryam was also part of our 2008 Student Spotlight CD. Click on the player below to hear how far she's come in just 2 years!