After being involved in music throughout high school, senior Grace Maxwell has big plans for after she graduates from Manhattan High School this month.

“I have been inspired by many kinds of music because I love all forms of storytelling,” Maxwell said. “Being involved in the band and choir program allows me to be creative.”

Maxwell plays a variety of instruments like clarinet and bassoon and also sings in the choir. She is in her eighth year of playing bassoon and has gained valuable character traits from the years of practice and improvement. But most of all, she has gained a love of creativity that has led to her desire to inspire others with the world of music. She has been around music for most of her life, which has led to her dream to become a music director. 

“I have been involved with music my whole life because my parents are music teachers,” Maxwell said.

Maxwell’s end goal may be to be a director but she also has many other interests. Most recently, she says she was inspired by the band, drama and choir trip to Disney World in Orlando, Florida. In addition, she also was inspired by the experience of being in the band at the Manhattan High football games. These experiences opened her eyes to various types of music, especially the world of classical music. Her love of literature is incorporated into her desire to use music to tell a story. Being a director will allow her to continue her creativity throughout her life.

“I am also interested in other forms of creative expression including art and literature,” Maxwell said.

Maxwell has many hopes for the future. But her main goals include being a director and encouraging kids in the field of music.

“I hope that in the future I can inspire someone in the way my teachers have inspired me,” Maxwell said.