Some of Zach’s favorite memories of Prospect Sierra were in the music program, which he says was “fantastic.” He goes on to say, “Having a class that is really fun and experimentally-based is a great way to get kids to try new things and see what they like doing.”
Zach attends Vassar College where he studies music during the year. While on breaks and holidays he works with the group; not only composing and recording songs, but also on the logistics of a band such as: finding a recording studio, a manager, a booking agent, music attorneys, and a record label.
Forrest, Zach, and Chase attended Berkeley High School and played in the renowned Jazz Ensemble. Forrest, who is currently at UCLA, says, “Transition to high school was easy academically. Prospect Sierra had given me a great head start on all academic subjects. How to study, take tests, write papers, organize my time—these are all skills that Prospect Sierra helped instill in me.”
Forrest’s middle school humanities teacher inspired him to do his “best work” and that has stayed with him throughout high school. In addition to music, politics, history, and government are some of his favorite subjects. Forrest is keenly interested in social problems and opportunities. He worked on the Obama campaign and traveled with fellow Berkeley students for four days of door to door canvassing to “get out the vote” in Nevada. “The teaching environment at Prospect Sierra contributed to my confidence to speak up and speak out in class and in the greater community.”
Chase, who is concurrently enrolled at both Oberlin College and the Conservatory of Music agrees, “teachers at Prospect Sierra were committed to their students and learning environment.” Chase reflects on his time at Prospect Sierra as the foundation for lifelong friendships as well as a successful outlook on life. He says, “I like to think that Prospect Sierra students have a larger world view than most teens and often have far reaching goals that they are well equipped and prepared to attain.”
He credits Prospect Sierra with helping him and fellow band-mates become critical thinkers. He says, “I feel that these skills have helped us to navigate the music business by enabling us to understand contracts, make connections, and promote ourselves as intelligent and driven individuals.”
The Thirstbusters are currently working on their second album. We know we will be hearing more from them in
the future.