Balancing the demands of college life and creative expression, Frank Sanzo, a senior music education major, finds solace in the rhythms and melodies that have shaped his path. Between jam sessions and early morning classes, this Bowling Green State University (BGSU) student is not merely hitting the books, but also discovering new musical notes.

Unlocking the Melody of Life

Discovering the Rhythm of Music

Sanzo's relationship with music has been a lifelong affair. Originally from Painesville, Ohio, he attended Riverside High School, where he immersed himself in the school's theater, choir, and band programs. "I didn't join a band and start percussion until freshman year of high school," Sanzo recalls. "Before that, I was just playing guitar and singing." It was during his seventh-grade year, when he acquired a guitar, that his love for music truly blossomed.

Fostering a Passion for Performance

Sanzo's high school directors played a pivotal role in nurturing his musical talents. "My directors in high school were very supportive and would let me play guitar for the choir and let me play guitar for other performances," he says. "And then they would also let me sing solos in class. So that's what really pushed me." This encouragement and the opportunity to showcase his skills fueled Sanzo's passion for music, setting the stage for his future endeavors.

Embracing the "Total Percussion" Philosophy

Alongside his education studies, Sanzo is an active member of the BGSU Percussion Studio, where he learns from faculty and staff and performs with other students. "Frank has really embraced the 'total percussion' philosophy of our percussion studio here in the College of Musical Arts," says Daniel Piccolo, percussionist and associate professor for the College of Musical Arts (CMA). The CMA and the percussion studio as a whole provide a collaborative environment where students can work together, learn from one another, and create music.

Balancing Academics and Artistry

Sanzo's classmate, Anthony Douglas, a Percussion Performance major and fellow member of the percussion studio, describes him as "a very efficient person to play with." Douglas adds, "He's very knowledgeable and it's clear he does things intentionally and with conviction." Sanzo's dedication to his craft is evident in his academic pursuits and his creative endeavors.

Composing and Producing Original Music

Sanzo has officially released two original songs, "1x1" and "Milk and Cereal," which are available on streaming platforms. While he finds recording and producing his music to be the biggest challenge, the writing process comes more naturally to him. "When something happens in my life or I get reminded of something, I pick up the guitar and I end up writing a cool song," he says. Sanzo's approach to songwriting involves starting with chords and melodies, then adding lyrics on top.

Balancing Academics, Teaching, and Performances

In addition to his studies at BGSU, Sanzo currently teaches at two different high schools in the area, preparing for his upcoming graduation. "That's what's important to me. I work," he says. Sanzo also has a senior recital scheduled for November 9th, which he considers his main project at the moment. Despite his busy schedule, Sanzo finds time to enjoy other activities, such as going to the gym and spending time outdoors.

Embracing Music as a Lifelong Passion

Sanzo's dedication to music is evident in every aspect of his life. "Everything just somehow connects to music," he says. "It's hard for me to find an aspect of my life that isn't somehow connected to music." While he acknowledges the challenges of making music a career, Sanzo remains focused on his passion for education, with music as his chosen subject."As a Music Education major, I am sure that Frank will be able to draw on his versatility to become a passionate, unique and impactful educator," says Piccolo. Sanzo's classmates recognize his unwavering commitment to his craft, with Douglas describing him as "a heck of a musician, an amazing player and a great person overall."As Sanzo approaches graduation, his sights remain firmly set on two pillars of his life: music and educating the next generation. "There's a reason I chose to go into this. I do it because I love it, and it's just a passion for education more so than music," he says. "So that kind of pushes me is where I separate the music part aside. At the end of the day, I'm still educating children and that's what I want to do."