Sharon has been learning the flute for many years, and recently (18 months ago) decided to take up the cello. 2 years ago, she sat her grade 5 theory exam and passed with a mark of 100%. Although many of her lessons have been online because of COVID, she has made rapid progress with both instruments and is lead flute in various stage musical shows, as part of the local orchestra. She is currently working towards grade 8 for both flute and cello and is part of the NZSO mentoring programme for both instruments, a significant achievement, all the while maintaining her academic studies being year 11 academic runner up. Her goal next year is to be part of the New Zealand Secondary School’s Symphony Orchestra, be part of the National Youth Orchestra and eventually after finishing her studies at university she would like to be playing professionally.