Report: Lillian Leptos
The WRSC community knows Brandon as a brilliant contemporary pianist who plays a starring role in school performances and assemblies, but there are many other facets to this talented young man.
His love of music was fostered by growing up in a very musical family.
“There were numerous singers and of course my father is a bassist,” Brandon says.
He first touched the ivories when he was just three years old and by the time he was seven, his parents responded to his talent and clear interest in the piano by providing him with lessons. His skill developed exponentially.
Today, I visit Brandon at St Clare’s Primary School in Thomastown, where he attends every week as a classroom volunteer.
Assistant principal Julia Di Noto throws all manner of challenges at him and Brandon has experienced a great variety of programs across the school. He has worked with several year levels and loves the interaction with the students.
“On my first day at the school a prep student came up to me and gave me a big hug,” he says.
The Year 10 Humanities work Brandon completed in Term 1 has been put to good use in the classroom where the students were learning about government, citizenship, and democracy. Brandon mingles easily with staff and students and sees the relationships he is building with them as one of the best things about his volunteering experience.
In the classrooms, Brandon takes every opportunity to build his knowledge and skills.
“I’m constantly asking questions about how they do things, and I’m particularly interested in the way they can manage a room full of lively and excited little people,” he says.
“The teachers are like my mentors.”
Ms Di Noto was particularly impressed by Brandon’s maturity and confidence in offering feedback when he could see potential for improvements.
When asked about his future, Brandon is clear about his aspirations.
“I love maths and I think that is leading me to a career in engineering, IT or coding,” he says.
“If all else fails I will use my musical skills to earn a living.”
The future sure does look bright for this talented young man.