March 2026 Student Spotlight: Ishaan Pramanik

Our March 2026 Student Spotlight is shining on a young multi-instrumentalist whose primary instrument is the baritone ukulele – Ishaan Pramanik.  Ishaan is a multi-instrumentalist who studies with both Emily Gradowski and Brennan McShane. Emily describes Ishaan as “thoughtful, gentle and consistently curious” and says he is “always eager to try new things, has a wonderful attitude and is truly a model student.” Brennan agrees, saying he has been “nothing but a sheer delight to work with.” 

Brennan adds “From very early on in his musical journey, I knew that Ishaan had an innate passion and gift for music. He continuously amazes me with a musical maturity far beyond his years. He is extremely detail oriented and his innate curiosity always keeps me inspired.”

Read on to learn more about Ishaan in his own words or keep scrolling for video highlights!

Congratulations to Ishaan for being nominated. We can’t wait to watch where you grow!

What do you study and why did you pick that instrument?

I study the baritone ukulele, the electric guitar, and sometimes some piano. I also do singing. And the reason why I chose those instruments is because they interest me.

Who is your teacher and what do you love about them?

I have two teachers, Emily and Brennan. I like Brennan’s personality and I like the way Emily teaches – she lets me do whatever subject we are doing and then once I finish she gives me tips. 

What kind of music do you listen to or play? Who is one of your favorite artists?

I like rock music and modern music. I like JVKE a lot. He has a cool song on YouTube called “Her”

What has been your greatest musical challenge?

My greatest challenge was going up on stage at a Stages’ recital. I tried not to stress too much, just to breathe and get through it. 

What’s your favorite thing about Stages or do you have a favorite Stages memory?

My favorite thing about Stages is the way that the rooms are organized and the way that the teachers teach.

What are your musical goals? 

My musical goals are to be able to play my instruments pretty decently.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in music?

Tell us a fun fact about yourself.

I think I’m really brave and I like cooking because there are different steps to it and you can either use specific measurements or you can just use feeling. 

What’s something you’ve accomplished musically that you’re really proud of?

I accomplished going up on stage and I was on one of the TVs.

Who is your musical role model or inspiration?

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Do you have a student you think is deserving to be highlighted?
Nominate them by emailing us!