In its 28-year history, the Colorado Springs Conservatory has served as a “home away from home” to countless talented young people. It continues to be a “home” where students can be themselves without fear of judgment, a “home” that provides trusted adult guidance and experiences that build character and discipline, and a “home” with “siblings” and mentors who share their passions and pursuits.
Many Conservatory alumni have embarked upon careers that include medicine, engineering, law, history, literature, and education. Additionally, we celebrate the numerous Conservatory graduates who have gone on to professional art careers, which include national touring companies, Broadway, New York City Opera, international opera houses, and arts organizations.
This month, we’d like to shine our spotlight on senior Conservatory student, Meredith Aguirre, who was recently accepted into the Belmont University School of Music!
Meredith, how long have you attended Colorado Springs Conservatory (CSC)?
I have attended the conservatory since 7th grade, so almost six years.
What have you studied at the Conservatory?
I have studied voice, songwriting, recording arts, guitar, piano.
What are some of your fondest memories of your time at CSC?
I think my favorite memories are of helping younger students at the Conservatory with songwriting. I had the opportunity, last summer, to co-mentor the singer/songwriter camps, and it was such an amazing experience. Seeing different perspectives of how to approach the writing process, and throughout to the end product, and witnessing the excitement the kids felt is indescribable.
In what ways has your time at CSC prepared you for your future?
The Conservatory has prepared me immensely for college and the music industry and has been my second home. I feel confident moving into the next stage of my life because of the Conservatory.
What are your dreams/aspirations for your future?
One day, I hope to be a professional songwriter – writing and recording for myself and others. Hopefully, one day I can be in a position to give back to the Conservatory and all of the students there.
Will you continue to perform and/or study music/performance after your graduation? If so, where or how?
After I graduate, I plan to attend Belmont University, located in Nashville, in the fall. I am going to study songwriting.
What advice would you give to a peer considering attending Colorado Springs Conservatory?
If you are thinking about attending the Conservatory, just do it. CSC has changed my life completely, as well as for many of my friends there. The Conservatory is a welcoming home to anyone.
Who has been your favorite mentor and/or inspiration in your music and performance journey?
I think all the mentors at the Conservatory have really lifted me in my growth, but there are a couple of mentors that I feel connected to, as they are my friends as well. They are Christina Wells – Program Mentor | Voice, Composition & Songwriting, Jeff Grady – Lead Mentor | Recording Arts, David Musante – Lead Mentor | Guitar & Community Engagement, and Joe Johnson – Program Mentor | Composition & Songwriting.
Which songs would be on your ultimate road trip playlist?
Songs by artists like Harry Styles, Emmylou Harris, Joni Mitchell, Adele, Linda Ronstadt, ABBA, Stevie Nicks, and Tyler Childers are a necessity for any road trip!
