| Azariah Folkes-Bowden, age 15, is a dynamic young pianist and proud 10th-grade piano major at Arts High School in Newark. Her musical journey began in the 1st grade, when her early talent opened the door to a scholarship opportunity with the Newark School of the Arts’ Nurturing Program. For the past three and a half years, Azariah has grown within the NSA community and now studies in the prestigious Kathy and Mark Grier Conservatory and Pre-College Music Program as a Carollo-Calabrese Scholar. Her dedication and artistry have led her to perform on some of New Jersey’s most notable stages, including the Newark Museum of Art, Newark Symphony Hall, Princeton University, and New Jersey Performing Arts Center. She has also shared the spotlight with distinguished ensembles such as the Harlem Chamber Players and the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra. Beyond the piano, Azariah is a curious and creative thinker who enjoys reading, exploring science, and making TikTok videos that showcase her fun, expressive side. |
Organization Name: New Jersey Performing Arts Center
Award Title: Excellence in Music
Year: 2026
What does receiving a New Jersey Governor’s Award in Arts Education mean to you? When I was told the news, I was elated to hear this and I am very honored to be awarded for doing one of my favorite things in the whole world.
How has receiving this award influenced your artistic journey and future aspirations? When I first started learning piano (when I was in elementary school), I would get so frustrated at myself for not being the best in the class. My fingers wouldn’t curve, my thumbs would have indents from the keys when I had the wrong hand posture, and every minute I got a few notes wrong I would just give up. I remember my teacher sat me down once and she explained how I should be patient, how no one is perfect and to just have fun! This has always stuck with me since. Even when I feel like I’m not the best, I remember those memories and I push through to succeed in my favorite hobby and future profession.
Can you share a specific experience in arts education that had a profound impact on your development as an artist? The advice I would give to all the young artists is to NEVER EVER give up doing what you love. Even if you don’t plan on building a career off of your art in the future, keep going if it makes you happy and you really enjoy doing it.
