Whiz Kid: Music is Source of Expression for Eighth Grade Violist

Emily Spiller hits all the right notes, not only when playing the viola but also in academics, theater and sports. 

Emily, an eighth-grade student at , has played viola or violin since she was 9 years old. She was chosen to play in the 2011 All-Suburban Orchestra, which is composed of middle school students throughout the St. Louis area.

“The viola lets me express myself and get my emotions out,” Emily said.  “Plus, orchestra is fun, and I’ve met lots of friends there.”

Emily is a straight A student. “I really like communication arts, reading and writing,” she said.  She will attend next year and has a tough course load. “I have chosen challenge science, history, and reading. And, I’ll continue viola in the symphonic orchestra,” she said.

“Emily is an outstanding violist that possesses so much potential to do something truly great with the instrument!" Rebecca Pantano, orchestra teacher at West Middle, said in an email. "She is, by far, one of the most talented students I have had the pleasure of teaching."

Each summer for the past three years, Emily has spent a month at a drama camp in Dallas. 

“For drama camp, I audition with a prepared song, and there is also a dance audition. We find out which roles we’re given and practice begins,” Emily said. “Finally, we get to perform our play in a theater in front of an audience. It’s such a fun experience. Plus, my grandparents live in Dallas, so I get to help them out while I’m there.”

Emily is also active in West Middle’s track team and considers herself a sprinter. She plays soccer on both the school and her church’s team.

“Emily is internally motivated. She is a good student and participates in many things,” said her mother, Michelle Spiller. “She is very interested in drama, music, and the arts. Theater gives her a stage to perform.”

Emily is the daughter of Barrett and Michelle Spiller. Her brother, Hayden, is in fourth grade.