All the Right Notes

Anthony Gasso performs at a piano recital in 2024.

A 10-year-old piano student shows great promise

By Sarah Kittle

Anthony Brandon Gasso is not your typical 10-year-old. But then again, he is. He enjoys Roblox and basketball, roller skating and soccer. With his classmates, he is learning how to play the recorder in Music class.

But Gasso, a fourth grader from Sterling Heights, has received recognition for his remarkable piano skills from the National Guild of Piano Teachers. The honor, which was awarded last year, acknowledges his dedication and growth as a young musician.

Gasso, who began playing the piano at age 4, was presented with a 5-year trophy, a 5-year pin, and pins for each year he participated in the Guild’s auditions. These awards mark his continued success in memorizing and performing 10-piece piano solos from a variety of musical genres, including baroque, classical, romantic, and contemporary.

How did Anthony react to being recognized? “It was amazing,” said Gasso, who is the oldest of four boys in his family. “It’s been a lot of practice, but it’s fun and I like the challenge.”

Gasso’s piano journey began when he was 4 years old and saw his older cousins taking lessons. His natural interest in music led him to start lessons with Nancy Meyette, a seasoned piano teacher based in Bruce Township. Meyette, who has been teaching piano for more than 40 years and has a background in vocal music, has helped Gasso hone his skills and develop a love for performing.

“Anthony is always smiling when I see him,” said Meyette. “He is becoming an accomplished musician and is diligent about practicing.”

Anthony’s recognition by the Guild places him among a growing number of Chaldean students who have received the prestigious award. Christian Toma was honored in 2023, and Leanna Kasmikha received the same recognition in 2020.

The National Guild of Piano Teachers, founded in 1929, is renowned for its non-competitive approach to piano education. The Guild provides an opportunity for students of all levels, from beginners to advanced players, to showcase their progress through structured, non-competitive auditions. Unlike traditional music competitions, the Guild’s system focuses on individual improvement, with students evaluated on their accuracy, phrasing, rhythm, technique, and overall musicality.

For young musicians like Anthony, the Guild offers more than just awards—it provides valuable feedback and motivation to continue developing their musical talents. Through these auditions, students gain exposure to a diverse repertoire and constructive critiques from qualified adjudicators, which helps them grow as artists and set new goals.

The Guild’s primary goal is to foster growth and enjoyment in students while encouraging them to continue their piano studies. The program includes a range of awards, from diplomas and plaques to scholarships and special honors. In addition to the benefits of personal growth, the Guild also fosters a sense of community among piano teachers and students.

For Anthony, the recognition is a testament to his commitment to his craft. Despite his academic success as an all-A student and his role as the model for his younger brothers, he continues to excel in his musical endeavors. His dedication is not only apparent in his achievements but also in his daily routine of practicing and preparing for the Guild auditions.

“We are not super strict about his practice schedule,” says Janie Gasso, Anthony’s mom. “Parents need to be patient with their kids.” She and dad Brandon are equally proud of their son’s accomplishments.

Fast and upbeat is Anthony’s music choice, like Radetzky’s March by Johann Strauss. He is currently mastering two songs for a solofest this month.

Looking ahead, Anthony is eager to continue his piano studies and explore new musical challenges. When asked if he will pursue music professionally, he said he didn’t know yet; he’s only ten.

He did, however, offer advice for aspiring young musicians: “Word hard but don’t worry if you make mistakes,” said Anthony. “That’s how you learn.”