A SOUND ALL HIS OWN
Celebrating young talent in the MPCS Fine Arts program as a student composer's work earns statewide recognition
The Fine Arts program at Mount Pisgah Christian School is built to do more than teach technique. It challenges students to think creatively, take artistic risks, and shape work that reflects their own perspective.
That spirit was on full display earlier this month when eighth grader William Zhang was selected as a finalist for a student composition performance at the annual Georgia Music Educators Association conference in Athens. The conference brings together music educators and students from across the state for professional learning, recruitment conversations, and live performances. William’s work was chosen from hundreds of submissions spanning fifth grade through collegiate levels.
His piece, Phytoplankton, was written for flute, clarinet, cello, and piano. Through layered melodies and shifting textures, the composition creates a soundscape inspired by microscopic organisms drifting through sunlit water. The imagery is subtle yet vivid, a reflection of both imagination and growing mastery.
The work was performed by undergraduate music students from the Hugh Hodgson School of Music at the University of Georgia. While William was not able to attend the conference in person, the recognition speaks volumes.
This is not the first time William’s compositions have been performed. His previous works have premiered at MPCS orchestra concerts and Fine Arts events, including Leaf for violin and piano, which debuted at the most recent Christmas concert and, according to Orchestra Director Nicholas Wheeler, “moved many to tears.”
“It is absolutely a joy to work with a young artist as William who is expanding his mastery as composer and pianist,” Wheeler shared. “He is widely praised among peers and professionals.”
William’s achievement is more than an individual milestone. It is a reminder of what is possible when young artists are encouraged to lead with creativity and courage. At Mount Pisgah Christian School, students are not only interpreting great works. They are composing them.