Music student Emilio Giambarella has an academic journey that began similarly to many other students. He wasn't serious about school when he was growing up, and this showed in his performance. He did however, pay attention in music class and even remembers the first blue plastic clarinet he used in middle school band. Fast forward to his last semester at QCC and Emilio has not only become a standout student, he has been accepted to Berklee College of Music, among other music programs in the area.
Emilio grew up in a creative household where his mother was always playing different styles of music around the house and exposing him to local musicians. A musician herself, Emilio's mother has been very supportive of his pursuit of music as both an outlet and a career.
"Music is the ultimate expressive vehicle," said Emilio, who learned how to play the saxophone by ear and is a self-professed "jazz guy," drawing inspiration from saxophonist and composer Michael Brecker.
During his first semester at QCC, Emilio struggled but eventually realized that higher education was a choice he invested in and he owed it to himself to put in the effort. Since then, he has fully immersed himself in the music program, increasing his technical skills and understanding of music theory.
"QCC has been so great. The professors are very accommodating and the music program is the best start you could have," Emilio said.
Professor of Music Jose Castillo praised Emilio for his musical leadership skills and his dedication to the craft, calling attention to his rigorous daily practice schedule and commitment to gigs with the QCC Music Ensemble. The ensemble performs at college events like commencement, as well as events in the community at venues such as Mechanics Hall.
According to Castillo, getting accepted to Berklee College of Music is no easy feat. As an alum, he knows firsthand. But no matter where students go when they leave the program, Castillo emphasizes the importance of networking and the business side of the industry.
Emilio has taken this advice to heart and has made many musical connections during his time in the program. Whenever a group needs a sax player, he is ready to play, even if it's a genre outside of his usual style. You may have seen him perform at The Raven or Electric Haze in Worcester or even The Lilypad in Cambridge.
Emilio is still determining where he will continue his studies, but his long-term goal is to earn his Ph.D. and become a teacher. This isn't merely a fallback plan; Emilio has reflected on his own struggles as a youth and envisions himself as an outlet for students facing similar challenges, all while engaging them through music.
We'll be waiting to see Emilio's name in lights, but in the meantime, enjoy the sweet sounds of the sax in this clip.