Vaul Phillips, Jr — 2025 CAFE Graduate

Growing up with my Trinidadian parents, music has always been more than sound—it is the

voice of our culture, our struggles, our celebrations, and our stories. As a dedicated member of

the CAFE (Cultural Academy of Excellence) Steel Pan Ensemble, I have deepened my

appreciation for the steel pan, and have been taught the value of community, cultural pride, and

discipline. This experience has shaped how I understand my place within Trinidadian heritage

and has equipped me with the tools I need to succeed at Shenandoah University School of

Music in the fall of 2025.

In the ensemble, every player has a unique role. Yet the true beauty of our music only comes

alive when we work together. This taught me the importance of collaboration and listening skills

that go beyond the stage. Whether we were practicing for a national competition, or performing

at a community event, I learned to trust in the collective process and take responsibility for my

contribution to the success of the entire group. This sense of shared purpose made me feel

deeply connected to my peers, and more broadly, to my cultural roots.

This experience has also prepared me practically and emotionally for the rigors of Shenandoah

University’s Performing Arts’ Degree Program. I've developed discipline through long hours of

rehearsal, learned how to manage the rigors of busy concert schedules, and built confidence by

performing in front of diverse audiences. Most importantly, I have cultivated a strong sense of

cultural purpose. I am entering Shenandoah University not just as a performer, but as a bearer

of a rich Caribbean tradition that I hope to share, celebrate, and promote to others in the arts

and other fields of learning.

Respectfully Submitted,

Vaul Phillips