Brian Pavone The Music Academy of Garden City is pleased to announce the October and November Musicians of the Month!

October 2009 Musician of the Month Brian Pavone is an eighth grader at Lynbrook North Middle School and has been playing the drums since he was five years old. He has been taking lessons with Chris Thaw at the Music Academy for a year, and performs with the Music Academy Jazz Ensemble under the direction of Peter Coco. Brian is also a member of the jazz ensemble at his school. Last year, Brian received an Outstanding score on a level four NYSSMA solo. His teacher Chris describes him as “one of the most talented and hard working students” he teaches, and “always eager to learn different styles of playing.” Brian sites Ringo Starr as a drummer he emulates.

November Musician of the Month Nicolette Giammona is a seventh grader at Garden City Middle School. She began playing the upright bass two years ago, and studies with Peter Coco at the Music Academy. Besides playing in her school’s orchestra and jazz band, Nicolette also plays with the Django Reinhardt Ensemble at the Music Academy, which performs jazz and swing music. Last year she received a Perfect score on a NYSSMA level two solo. Her teacher Peter describes her as “a dedicated and talented musician.” He adds, “Nicolette is always prepared for her lessons, has a passion for music, and is one of the brightest students I know.”

Nicolette Giammona The entire faculty of the Music Academy of Garden City would like to congratulate our October and November 2009 Musicians of the Month.