How One Member of the CPS Class of 2025 Discovered His Passion for Music in High School

There are a lot of aspects of Richards Career Academy that soon-to-be graduate Gustavo has enjoyed in his four years as a student there. Because it is a smaller high school, he has appreciated the individualized attention he has received from both his teachers and his counselors. He has also discovered his passion for music. He developed a strong relationship with his music teacher, and that has led music to be central to his pursuits both inside and outside of the classroom. 

We interviewed Gustavo to learn more about his experience as a budding student musician, as well as his plans for the future. Get to know more about him below. 

Why was music something you gravitated toward in terms of an interest both inside and outside of the classroom? 

I honestly never saw myself playing music. It was actually a really big surprise for me, but I don’t regret it at all. I didn’t expect this to be my career either, but I’m glad that it is the career that I am planning to pursue. 

What are a few of your favorite memories of being a student at Richards? 

Definitely the events we have at school, especially the music events. I enjoyed those a lot. I also spent a lot of time making new friends since I’m not originally from Chicago. I did a lot of fun stuff with them. Now, I think I’m ready to graduate and move on to the next chapter of my life. 

You’ve decided to attend the VanderCook College of Music next year? How did you make that decision, and what are you looking forward to most about college? 

Since I want to pursue the music education field, I feel like it is definitely the best place for me since that is its focus. It’s also a small school, which I have definitely gotten used to. I think that environment will help me get mentorship easily because it’s not as hard to look for help in such a small community. 

What has your relationship with your music teacher in high school taught you about the qualities that a great music teacher should have? 

I liked my music teacher, Mr. Konieczko, because he showed his personality while teaching. I really enjoyed being taught by him. He also pushed me to achieve my goals without going overboard on the discipline. 

If you could sum up your time at Richards in one word, what would it be and why? 

Optimistic. When I faced a problem in high school, I always looked on the bright side. I’m a very optimistic person because I feel like that is the best thing you can do for your life and your mindset.