How music students at AIS learn from guitar legends

Year 11 student KAPIL BHUTA explains how the music and arts programme at AIS has nurtured his creative instincts, developed his confidence and broadened his horizons.

The school offers a balanced education and gives me the opportunity to explore different interests. I’ve always enjoyed playing instruments, but my love and passion for music has only grown since being encouraged to take it as an elective subject for my IGCSE. The music programme at AIS is amazing and there are so many opportunities to perform and collaborate with other students. One of the best things about studying here is the support of the teachers, who have encouraged me, as well as many other students who they see potential in, to follow our passions and be proud of our achievements.

How has the school helped you to grow in confidence?

Music is my passion and the music department has encouraged me to pursue this; I play the drums, guitar and bass. When I first started performing I felt really nervous, but I feel my confidence has grown so much over my years at AIS. The culture is inclusive and supportive, and we are encouraged to follow our dreams and do what we love. AIS helps me to feel proud of who I am as an individual – every student has a place here no matter what their background or interests. I now look forward to getting on stage and performing to a crowd, and this is thanks to the encouragement and support of the teachers.

What are some of the musical opportunities you’ve enjoyed at AIS?

I’ve had the opportunity to meet world renowned performers through the “Inventors and Mentors” programme. Just recently, I met Isaiah Firebrace, winner of The X Factor Australia, and guitar legend Tommy Emmanuel. It’s great to learn from these artists and hear stories about where they’ve come from, and how they got where they are today.

AIS offers a huge range of performance opportunities for its musicians, both inside and outside of school. In the last 12 months, I’ve performed at the annual Music Ensemble Evening and Presentation Day at the National University of Singapore, the annual ANZA Ball at the Shangri-La Hotel, as well as events at the Australian High Commission. I’ve also performed in a number of school assemblies and at the school’s International Cultural Experience. These experiences are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and have helped me appreciate music so much more.