Rising High School Senior Showcases Original Composition at Concert

Pinecrest Academy rising senior, Ethan Tam, made his compositional debut at the school’s Spring Band Concert with an original piece titled Requiem, a reflective and moving work that captivated the audience.

This moment marked a significant milestone in Tam’s musical journey, which began several years ago.

Tam’s interest in writing music sparked during middle school when he joined the drumline and began experimenting with music software. “I started writing on some software I had discovered and didn’t realize, at the time, that this was called ‘composition,’” Tam shared. His early arrangements were inspired by material from Drumcorps International. “I didn’t know too much, so it was really bad,” Tam laughed, “but I kept writing and gradually improved.”

He began composing Requiem about a year and a half ago, initially sharing it only with Pinecrest Academy Director of Bands, Mr. Jason Sneath. After hearing the piece, Mr. Sneath was impressed and encouraged Tam to revise and refine the work for performance. The result was a powerful, emotionally rich composition that added depth and artistry to the spring concert program.

“Ethan’s composition brought tears to my eyes,” said Mrs. Amy Bowman, High School Principal. “It’s been incredible to watch his talent develop. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for him. I pray he continues to share his God-given gifts with the world.”

Tam drew his inspiration for Requiem from nature. “A big storm had just come through, and that’s when I started writing,” he explained. “Writing music is an emotional and intellectual outlet for me. It’s how I express myself, almost like a painter or an artist. When I’m inspired, I write.”

In addition to composing, Tam is rekindling his interest in piano. He first began playing at a young age, inspired by his cousin, but shifted his focus to tuba in fourth grade due to time constraints. Now, as he begins exploring college opportunities, Ethan has found that piano is not only creatively fulfilling but also beneficial for a composition portfolio.

Tam plans to pursue a major in composition after high school, and Requiem is just the beginning of what his band director is certain will be a remarkable musical path.