October Student Spotlight: Kohena Basu

October’s student spotlight is a high school junior who studies voice, drums, songwriting AND bass – Kohena Basu. Though Kohena technically has FOUR teachers, she was nominated by Molly Garrett, who says of this multi-talented teen: 

“Kohena is so eager to learn everything about music. She started voice lessons with me years ago and along the way we’ve learned songwriting, piano, bass, and now she’s even taking drum lessons and classical voice lessons. Kohena is always ready to take on the next challenge and dives in head first. I’m constantly surprised by her and I can’t wait to see where she goes with her music in the future!”

Read on to learn more about this multi-instrumentalist!

What is your instrument and how long have you been playing?

I play drums and sing! I have been working on both for quite a while! 

What kind of music do you like to listen to and play?

I am a Lana Del Rey die hard fan! I truly am beyond happy listening to anything though! 

What’s your favorite thing about Stages?

My favorite stages memory is 100% my talks with Molly during practice and how open she is to trying new things!

What are your musical goals?

I would adore studying music in college and pursuing it even after graduating. 

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

Molly, Ian, and Emily are all my amazing teachers! I appreciate their passion and their patience with me. I aspire to be like every single one of them one day! 

Who are the musicians that inspire you?

All musicians inspire me because everyone has such a different take and view on music. I adore it. 

What inspired you to start playing music?

It has always been a huge influence in my life. My mom was the one who pushed me to genuinely pursue it so I owe her everything. My sister and my dad have also always been avid supporters. 

What do you love most about playing music?

The peace and calm it brings me. High school is so exceptionally hectic and it’s easy to get lost but music really brings me back down to earth. 

If you could collaborate with any musician, who would it be and why?

I would have to say The Smiths. I love the energy surrounding the group and their music.

What are your hobbies/interests besides music?

I enjoy reading and being outside, especially with my friends. 

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Do you know a student who is deserving of being in the spotlight? Nominate them by emailing us and telling us why they deserve to be recognized!