The Power of Music

 Music plays such an important and impactful role in each of us, even if we are unaware of it. It has the power to change our moods, increase our motivation, reduce stress, improve our memory, and so much more. One Seattle Academy alumnus is making his mark in the world of music, and it is clear the world is his oyster. 

Zach Santos Ufkes `18, is currently pursuing a double major in vocal performance and songwriting at Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts. Even before starting his career at the prestigious Berklee College of Music, Zach said he started singing around the age of seven and come middle school he was accompanying himself on the guitar. By the time Zach reached high school at SAAS, his interest in music had grown stronger than just an interest. He joined the Onions along with the jazz band and said it was those experiences that helped him mold and craft his musical identity. When the infamous SAAS Senior Project rolled around, he recorded his first album for the project, which launched his musical career to the next level. Since his time at SAAS, he has released two full-length albums of original music and recently released his third album, Portraits in the Rain, on February 14, 2021. 

 As many are aware, breaking into the music industry is no easy task. Zach said that making meaningful relationships with as many people as possible is the best way to grow one’s music portfolio to be as strong as possible. With the release of his third album, Zach reflects on what drew him to become a musician, “I was always drawn to music for as long as I can remember. My ears always loved picking apart the minute details of what I was hearing even when I didn't have the theoretical knowledge to truly understand what it was.” 

 Though the music industry can be challenging to stay afloat in, Zach is sure that his future is looking bright. He believes his songwriting abilities, producing, and performing will take him far. Zach wants others interested in the music industry to know, “Be yourself and don't feel like you have to fit into anyone's box. You are you for a reason, and your voice deserves to be heard. People love an artist they can personally connect to, so aim for that! Finding people who really relate to your music is the best feeling. The honor, pleasure, and joy of leaving a personal impact on someone’s day, mood, or maybe their whole life will never diminish. It is a feeling that will forever remain evergreen.”
 

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