Taylor, a Class act, follows elder brother’s footsteps

By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Sarah Taylor has been awarded this year’s Strathmore Times Class Act Award, as well as the Ken May Memorial Award.

The Strathmore Times Class Act Award is presented annually to a student who demonstrates extraordinary accomplishments in one or more areas beyond the realm of academics, as well as who maintains a strong academic standing. 

These individuals stand out amongst their school and community through the quality of their character, as well as through their accomplishments.

“In March, I participated in the Strathmore Performing Arts Festival in five different disciplines – piano, cello, speech arts, voice, and musical theatre, and so I prepared at least two pieces for each discipline, which was about 85 minutes of memorized music,” said Taylor. “Then I was nominated for provincials for piano, voice, and musical theatre, and was awarded seven local scholarships as well. Then, I performed in provincials at the end of May, and I won first place for musical theatre.”

Taylor added she also took her Level 10 Harmony exam with the Royal Conservatory of Music in May, being a course corresponding to the content offered by a second-year university program.

Beyond that, she participated in the One Act Zone Festival, and the one act play, Last Chance Texaco.

Taylor followed in the footsteps of her elder brother, Isaac, who also was recognized both with the Strathmore Times Class Act, and Ken May Memorial Awards in June 2023.

“It was such a great honour, and I was so happy and excited to be chosen … I just felt extra connected and extra special to receive these awards,” she said. 

Taylor explained her passion for music and performing arts was founded at a young age and has been a passion for her throughout her youth. 

“Ever since I was five, my parents put me into lessons, which I am so grateful for, and I have been doing the festivals … I think I started at age 10. I have always just enjoyed performing, I have always enjoyed practicing,” she said. “Some of my other siblings, we were all put into music, but some chose different paths and some chose music. We were all given the opportunity and I guess I just really enjoyed it. I find it is a great way to express myself, especially just where words can’t.”

Keeping her options open, Taylor will be studying harmony, theory, and history, alongside preparations for her ARCT performance exam for piano. She also intends to achieve her Level 10 exam for cello. 

She advised younger students to not be scared to pursue their passions, regardless of field or finances.