Lakewood Legacies – Rachel Daso

I started playing the trombone in 4th grade after attending instruments on parade and have sought out musical opportunities wherever I have found myself since. I am currently in my last semester at Fordham University in New York studying Chemistry, but even with my busy schedule, I have made it a priority to keep music in my life. Being a musician in New York City has been a dream come true. Besides being a member of several ensembles at my university, I have also been involved with several groups at Jazz at Lincoln Center. One of my favorite ensembles at JALC is the Young Women’s Jazz orchestra, a group that works to encourage grade school and high school girls from the New York City area to enter the world of jazz. I love being able to share my love of music with other hopeful female musicians. One of the most memorable experiences I have had in New York was playing with the Brooklyn-based Soul Tigers Marching Band and opening for Lil’ Wayne at a Vans shoe release. While being in New York City has been exciting, I have to thank Lakewood City Schools for instilling in me a love for music. Playing the trombone has given me so many opportunities, has kept me sane through all of my studies, and it is definitely something I will carry with me for the rest of my life.