Ashley Hall students continue to distinguish themselves on the stage and in the studio, earning recognition at the local, state, and even national level for their remarkable musical talents. Whether composing original works, performing in elite ensembles, or receiving prestigious certifications, our students are rising stars in the world of music—and they’re doing it with grace, dedication, and heart. 

Music lessons are offered as an extracurricular option at Ashley Hall, and the number of students choosing to pursue private instruction is growing. This year, the results speak volumes—not only in accolades but in the passion and discipline our musicians bring to their craft. 

All-State Orchestra Honors

After an incredibly competitive audition process, three middle school students earned their place in the South Carolina Music Educators Association 6–8th Grade All-State Orchestra:

  • Sky Malloy ’28 (cello)
  • Ruby Ghatnekar ’29 (violin)
  • Adya Sharma ’29 (cello)

These talented young musicians spent a weekend in Spartanburg rehearsing with top student musicians from across the state, culminating in a powerful full-orchestra performance under the baton of a renowned conductor. Special thanks to their private lesson teachers—Zoe Walker, Aubrey Goio, and Cameron Williams—for helping them prepare for this honor.

Royal Conservatory of Music Recognition

Congratulations to Pearson James ’34, who earned a Royal Conservatory State Certificate of Excellence in piano—an Ashley Hall first! Pearson’s dedication and artistry were celebrated at a Lower School Assembly this year.

Also deserving applause is Beatrice Watson ’31, who received the highest mark in South Carolina for Level 2 Piano from the Royal Conservatory of Music.

Carnegie Hall Appearance

A special bravo to Adya Sharma ’29, who recently performed at Carnegie Hall with the Charleston Symphony Youth Orchestra (CSYO). Sharma has been an active CSYO member and string quartet performer, joining the orchestra onstage alongside the College of Charleston Orchestra and the Charleston Symphony Orchestra—an ensemble that includes several of Ashley Hall’s own string faculty members: Ben Weiss (viola), Frances Hsieh (violin), and Maggie Gould (violin).

Charleston Achievement Day Accolades

Seventeen Ashley Hall pianists participated in the Charleston Music Teachers Association’s Achievement Day at Charleston Southern University this March. This event challenges young musicians to showcase their skills in performance, technique, sight reading, and music theory. Ellie Murphy ’32 was named an alternate for her level and recognized in the Honors Recital program. Sriya Banik ’30 received the Crescendo Award and a trophy for consistently high scores. Thanks to our outstanding piano faculty—Anna Brock, Dan McCurry, Jan Smith, and Dr. Sooyun Yun—for their mentorship.

Charleston Achievement Day Participants:

  • Naomi Grek ’33
  • Sophie Deupree ’35
  • Charlotte Deupree ’33
  • Katie Solomon ’34
  • Ellie Murphy ’32
  • Sriya Banik ’30
  • Jaalah Brown ’26
  • Lucy David ’28
  • Ella Donohoe ’31
  • Annie Donohoe ’33
  • Emilia Goodwin ’32
  • Elly Middleton ’33
  • Madeleine Kopf ’29
  • Rhetta Lowndes ’31
  • Sidney James ’36
  • Pearson James ’34
  • Suzanne Groat ’27

Composition Competition Triumphs

Our students aren’t just performing—they’re creating. This year saw an impressive sweep across composition contests, from local to international stages.

Highlights include:

Charlotte Deupree ’33, whose original work “Night Waves” won 1st place in the NFMC Junior Composers Contest (South Carolina), Winner in the Southeast Regional round, and Winner of the South Carolina Music Teachers Association Composition Competition (Elementary Solo). She also received Honorable Mention in the International Piano Composition Contest.

Naomi Grek ’33 composed “Bunny Rabbit Hare,” which placed 2nd in the Charleston Sonatina Festival, won in the International Piano Composition Contest, and received Honorable Mention in the Piano Inspires Kids Magazine “Movie Score” Contest.

Eleanor Gilliespie ’35 earned Runner-Up in the SCMTAC Composition Competition (Elementary Solo) for “The Cave.”

Camila Zuniga ’28 was named Runner-Up in the Piano Inspires Kids Magazine “Movie Score” Contest (13–15 age group) for her piece “Mysteries.”

We are incredibly proud of these students—and the dedicated faculty who guide them—for representing Ashley Hall with such talent and determination. Their achievements show just how far music can take you when passion meets opportunity.

Bravo to all!