July 24, 2023
July Student of the Month: Piah Dabu
This July, we’re excited to spotlight CCM voice student, Piah Dabu, as our Student of the Month! Piah has been taking voice lessons at CCM for 1 year. She currently studies at CCM’s Sunnyvale location with Teacher Gaby. Teacher Gaby let us know that she is always prepared for her lessons and is dedicated to practicing consistently! Piah adapts well and is willing to try pop, musical theatre, art song, and even opera. Teacher Gaby says she’s incredibly respectful, open-minded, and a joy to teach!
Student of the Month – Piah Dabu
What is your name?
Piah Dabu
How old are you?
16
Who is your teacher?
Teacher Gaby
How long have you been taking voice lessons?
1 year
What advice would you give to a voice student just starting out at CCM?
Stay consistent with practicing, and have confidence in yourself. Don’t be scared to crack or mess up because you’ll never know what you’re capable of until you go for it!
What song are you looking forward to learning someday?
On my Own from Les Miserables
What is your favorite thing about singing?
Our voice is a part of us, meaning I don’t have to bring an object to sing!! My favorite thing is you can express emotions through singing. When you understand the lyrics, it is fun to act out the song.
What is your favorite food?
Sinigang (Filipino soup)
Do you have a pet?
Nope.
Do you play any sports or do any other activities outside of music lessons?
I was on swim team for a while, but took a break because I did musical theatre this year!
What do you want to be when you grow up?
I’m still thinking about wha I want to be.
What is your most memorable experience at CCM?
Singing at the spring recital!
Parent Spotlight – Sarah Dabu
Regarding voice instruction, what are you most proud of your child accomplishing?
Piah grew up very shy and quiet. She didn’t want to sing in front of anyone. With the help of voice lessons, she gained confidence specially during the recital. That is what I’m most proud of. I am proud that she finds joy in performing and overcomes nervousness. She becomes a different person when she steps on the stage.
What advice would you give a new parent starting in the program?
Keep supporting your child, especially if music is their passion. It’s an amazing skill to know an instrument.
Why did you decide to give your child a musical upbringing?
I noticed how Piah had the potential to use her voice ever since she was 3. I didn’t want to push her into taking voice lessons. (She didn’t want to take lessons as a kid because she was very shy.) I was surprised when she asked me if she could take them last year. I’m very happy that she made that decision.
Below you can find a snippet of Piah’s performance at the spring recital!
