Liam Franciliso: November Student of the Month

Liam Franciliso is our Student of the Month for November. He is nine, he studies guitar with Teacher Ethan at our Fremont location, and he has been taking lessons for about five months.

Five months in, he already knows the song he wants to learn someday.

Student of the Month Questionnaire – Liam Franciliso

How long have you been taking guitar lessons?

“About 5 months”

What piece are you looking forward to learning someday?

“One piece I look forward to learning someday is an acoustic version of Metallica’s ‘Enter Sandman’ because it is my mom’s favorite song. Being able to play it for her would make the experience even more meaningful and special.”

What is your most memorable experience at CCM?

“One of the most memorable moments in my guitar lessons was learning to play my first chords and realizing how much I had improved through practice.”

What advice would you give a guitar student just starting out at CCM?

“Learning guitar is a journey that requires patience, practice, and passion. Don’t be discouraged when something feels difficult at first.”

Do you play any sports, or do anything else outside music lessons?

“I am a Taekwondo black belt and a triathlete.”

What is your favorite food?

“Chicken Adobo and Rice. Filipino Food.”

Do you have a pet?

“None. But I would love to have one.”

What do you want to be when you grow up?

“Mechanical Engineer.”

Liam in a lesson with Teacher Ethan.

Parent Spotlight – Shane Franciliso

We also asked Liam’s dad about the last five months.

What are you most proud of Liam accomplishing?

“The love for music continues to grow with Liam’s every guitar lesson, along with the confidence that comes from learning new skills, overcoming challenges, and recognizing his progress. Each accomplishment inspires him to keep practicing, express his creativity, and enjoy the journey of becoming a better musician.”

Why did you decide to give your child a musical upbringing?

“Introducing Liam to music means more than just teaching him how to play an instrument; it is an investment in his personal growth and development. Music cultivates discipline, patience, perseverance, creativity, and self-expression. These vital life skills can be carried into adulthood, allowing individuals to confront problems with confidence, form meaningful connections, and sustain a lifelong love of learning. Most significantly, music provides a constructive avenue for emotional expression as well as a source of delight that can benefit him for many years.”

What advice would you give a new parent starting in the program?

“I would advise parents to let their kids enjoy playing the guitar without putting too much pressure on them to be flawless. It takes perseverance, discipline, consistency, and patience to learn an instrument. Honor their modest achievements, promote consistent practice, and let them experiment with music they truly love. Above all, provide a welcoming and encouraging atmosphere that boosts their self-esteem, fosters their creativity, and deepens their passion for music. In addition to honing musical abilities, the objective is to foster resilience, self-expression, and a lifetime love of music.”

Congratulations, Liam

Five months of guitar, a Taekwondo black belt, a triathlete, and a plan to be a mechanical engineer. And an acoustic “Enter Sandman” waiting to be learned, for his mom.

Congratulations from all of us at The California Conservatory of Music, and our thanks to Teacher Ethan.

Book a free trial lesson at The California Conservatory of Music today!