Berkshire Hills Music Academy
 

Student Stories

BHMA Chorus and Troupe

Berkshire Hills Music Academy students learn and perform music ranging from jazz and classical, to pop music and children's favorites. Some students create and perform their own compositions, and our ensembles travel with their own professional sound equipment and are available to delight and entertain audiences of all ages.

Ani Petithory

Ani is a graduate of BHMA. She lives in South Hadley where she shares a home with a roommate and works at a local elementary school in town. Read Ani's Story

Eva Eason

In September 2009 I sent my daughter Eva to Berkshire Hills Music Academy - BHMA. Eva graduated from high school this past June and she happens to have Down syndrome. She auditioned for BHMA with her violin, which she had studied from grades 3 to 12. After being accepted, she laid down her violin and asked to study piano. Eva did not play piano. At best, she tried to pick out a couple of songs on the keyboard, like Twinkle Twinkle with one finger. After four short months - look at her now! She learned so much in such a short time. I have renewed hope for the future! - Anne Eason, mother

Hear Eva play the piano

Tori Ackley

Tori is a talented singer/songwriter who has performed across the country headlining events for the Lilli Claire Foundation in California, Best Buddies in Florida and singing the National Anthem at a Red Sox’s game in Fenway Park. Her songs center on her experiences in life - friendships, family, and portray a child-like wonder. Songs like "Seeing the Sun," which was written for her grandfather when he passed away, paint her life experiences in a beautifully positivite way.

Hear Tori sing the National Anthem

Hear Tori and other BHMA Graduates perform Tori's original Sweet Melodies

Elca Maranzana

Elca has been performing since the age of 9 in her native Bermuda, but since coming to Berkshire Hills, she has been able to hone her skills as a classical vocalist, and explore her talents as a song writer. She has recorded several original songs, available on iTunes, and plans to release a full length album in the future. She has collaborated with many musicians, including her fellow student, Eamon Anderson, on songs like "The Whale Wars," featuring Elca's soaring soprano vocals and Eamon's beautiful guitar playing.

Visit Elca's website, and find her on iTunes and MySpace Music.

A.J. is one our of our Music Therapy students. Hear him accompany Elca singing Miley Cyrus's "The Climb."

 The Peruvian Trio

Etienne Perley, John Libera, and Eamon Anderson perform together as the Peruvian Trio. They produce a truly unique sound, using the panpipes, drums, and guitar to make beautiful music. Hear our talented Etienne, John and Eamon on "Mass Appeal."

See how music enhances the lives of not only our students but others as well!