By Taylor Conley and Theresa O’Connor

Imagine moving to a whole other country where everyone speaks a different language and practices a different culture. Seems pretty scary! That’s exactly what happened to 7th grader Karen Andrade, who made an extremely big move from Ecuador to the United States. Not only did a vast majority of the population speak English, but she knew no one here either! Aside from her background, Karen is also an extremely talented pianist who plays as an accompanist for the Bel Canto.

One afternoon, Karen was checking her email as she often does when she soon came across that Mrs. Johnson, the choir leader, was looking for an accompaniment for Bel Canto. Karen immediately jumped into action. She emailed Mrs. Johnson about her skill level, and what pieces she was working on. Mrs. Johnson accepted. She formerly thought Karen was a college student from her previous experience but was surprised to see a 7th grader taking on the job. Karen had to make adjustments to play for a choir: “She had to learn to keep playing after a mistake, and turn pages quickly,” said Mrs. Johnson.

Karen is the youngest pianist Bel Canto has ever had. She played in the Bel Canto recital on Oct. 24. Karen explained her experience as scary but exciting, in which she played the haunting melody, “Something Told the Wild Geese.” For the holiday season, she played “Estrella de Luz” at the TPA Dessert Concert at Grace Community Church on Nov, 17.

More about her background: Karen moved to the U.S. in 2013 and began 2nd grade, learning a distinct language and lifestyle. Karen recalls having to read pre-K books to learn this new language. She says, “It was kind of scary, but with good people, I overcame that fear.” Karen’s parents got her into piano, which became a passion of hers. Two summers ago, her dad’s good friend promised Karen and her sister piano scholarships, so they could go to Vermont for an advanced piano camp.

Overall, Karen has played a plethora of pieces over her 5 years of experience. These include various songs such as Moonlight Sonata, Chopin’s Waltz No. 3 in A Minor, and Revolution Etude. She practices piano for 1 hour each Saturday at the ASU music building with her teacher, Mrs. Svetlana. Additionally, she practices 1 to 2 hours at home every day to enhance her skills.

Karen Andrade has definitely made a name for herself in not only 7th grade but in TPA’s Bel Canto choir. We wish her luck as she hopefully furthers her piano career into being more and more successful.