Graduates

Rachel Shelton, Piano – Northwestern University

“My eight years at the GNMC were transformational. Pippa helped me discover my true passion as an artist and musician. She’s so much more than a piano teacher; she’s my mentor, my second mom, my friend. Now as I pursue my passions at the University of my choice, I owe so much of my success and growth to my years of musical education.”

Nicholas Wan, Piano – Yale University

“I don’t know when exactly my musical journey started, but I do know where it began: at the Great Neck Music Conservatory. I will always remember GNMC as some sort of tribute to all that is musical. With it’s display window adorned with violins, to its halls that perpetually echo with the sounds of classical piano concertos and jazzy woodwind, GNMC truly is the place for your musical experience, whether you’re taking your first steps into music or you’re well on your way down the lifelong journey. I had the fortune of spending many Friday afternoons studying under GNMC’s very own Pippa Borisy, and I will never forget her as my musical guide and inspiration! Thank you, Pippa and GNMC, for many happy years… It was a real pleasure.”

 

Stefanie Chan, Piano – Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon

Winner of the Chinese-American Music Festival Concerto Competition.

“I first stepped into Great Neck Music Conservatory at the age of four. Subsequently I can honestly say that the 14 years I spent at GNMC has shaped me into the person with the characteristics and music interests I have today. Beyond the high-calibar music lessons which brought me to fall in love with the piano, the consistent encouragement and devotion of GNMC faculty taught me the meanings of persistence, dedication, and passion. I had the great honor of studying under Pippa Borisy, who was simply one of a kind to me: an extraordinary pianist, a passionate piano teacher, and a true mentor. Thank you Pippa and GNMC for your inspiration, support, and enrichment all these years.”

 

Sage Mandel, Piano – Wharton School and University of Pennsylvania (Duel Degree Program)

Winner in the Great Neck Young Artist Auditions, and performed in a public masterclass at the Bechstein Centre in NYC. Sage Mendel studied piano at GNMC for eight years.

 

Andrew Gelfand, Saxophone – Harvard University

Studied saxophone at GNMC for eight years performing in numerous High Honor Concerts at Carnegie Hall and other venues.

 

Alexis Mandon, Piano – Cornell University

Performed in more than ten High Honor GNMC Concerts at Carnegie Hall and Steinway Hall, and presented a graduating Solo Recital. Alexis studied piano at GNMC since she was four years old, but began her musical studies even earlier as a baby in GNMC’s Kindermusik program.

 

Jeremy Gilston, Clarinet & Voice – Cornell University

Performed Neilson Clarinet Concerto with his High School Orchestra. All State voice.

 

Byron Wu, Piano – New York University, full scholarship

Awarded an individual Grammy for his original composition! Performed a solo recital presented by GNMC at Steinway Hall. Featured in articles in both the Sing Tao Daily and the World Journal. All State piano.

 

David Rosengarden, Cello – Harvard University

“Enjoyed the opportunity to perform cello on the stage of Carnegie Hall at a GNMC Honors Concert.”

Harris Tartell, Piano – Vanderbilt University

Performed at our last  GNMC Carnegie Hall the New York Premier of the composition “I Wonder” (quartet for piano, cello and two sopranos) by composer Roger Ames, who was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize in Music in 2008. Attended Manhattan School of Music Pre-College.

 

Barry Dynkin, Piano – New York University

Performed Grieg Piano Concerto with his High School Orchestra. Received numerous prestigious math and science awards.  Continues to study for pleasure and enrichment at GNMC.