Cayla

“Music has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. Growing up in Goa, where Western classical music has deep roots, my mother always encouraged me to pursue both a sport and an instrument, so I started playing the violin at age four. But, to be honest, I wasn’t very good at all for years. Who wants to practice something that sounds like cats fighting?

I really enjoy experimenting with various genres and styles of music but it wasn’t until the last five years that I truly began to enjoy playing, and now, I can confidently say I’m now quite decent!

Music was one of the reasons I wanted to continue my education outside India. I applied to join UWC through the Indian National Committee, and UWC Atlantic stood out because of its extensive extracurricular music program. Here, I’ve been lucky to receive a music scholarship that supports my lessons - something my family wouldn’t have been able to afford otherwise. The Music Department is supported by The Mousetrap Settlement Trust. Their invaluable contributions have enabled the college to acquire an extensive array of instruments and equipment and provide scholarships for music lessons to students like me. Without their generosity, many of us would not have the opportunity to pursue professional music lessons.

At UWC Atlantic, I study Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics at Higher Level, alongside English, Spanish and Global Politics. My music is all extracurricular and despite my academic workload, I always set aside two hours a day to practice the violin. I hadn’t realised just how big a part of my life music was until I got here. I naturally gravitate toward the music rooms, and playing the violin gives me a deep sense of calm. I can channel so much emotion into my music, and, honestly, I feel quite fancy playing it too!

I’ve always loved playing all genres of music, so when I read about the National Youth Orchestra of Wales, I knew I had to apply. I recorded myself playing several pieces, submitted my application, and was incredibly lucky to receive a bursary that made this opportunity possible.

This spring break, I will head to Cardiff for practice sessions, followed by a week-long residency in Lampeter. Then, I’ll spend the summer touring with the orchestra, performing in concerts across Wales. I feel so grateful for this experience."

Cayla has been able to continue her passion for music thanks to funding from the Mousetrap Settlement Trust.