Riddle shines as nominee for Music Center’s Spotlight

By Anna Real
Staff Writer

When words fail, music speaks.

Senior Cole Riddle has been playing the piano since he was seven and has been nominated as a semifinalist in the Music Center’s Spotlight Awards in the Jazz division as well as the Vail Jazz Workshop in Vail, Colorado.

“Considering the Jazz division is arguably the most competitive division in the Music Center’s Spotlight Awards competition, I found myself humbled and honored to be a member of the other 15 semifinalists,” Riddle said.

About 1,700 musicians auditioned for the Music Center’s Spotlight Awards in Southern California, but only 15 kids, including Riddle, made it to the semifinals. Additionally, only 12 musicians get to attend the annual Vail Jazz Workshop. Riddle will be notified if he is a finalist this summer.

“I am honored to be considered for this program,” Riddle said. “There have been countless people that I look up to as musicians who are a part of or have been a part of the program. Even being nominated is a big deal, so I feel pretty special.”

Riddle interns at Coast Music Conservatory where he helps younger musicians play in a group setting. He teaches private piano lessons, plays the drums and is a Latin percussionist. Riddle has also participated in a gospel choir and subbed for a vocal jazz ensemble called “Minor Six.”

“Cole is dedicated to musical expression with a passion,” music teacher Tamir Hendelman said. “He brings a real joy to his playing. He is always striving to reach the next level, to express himself more fully through the music. It makes me smile to see him make those breakthroughs and enjoy the process.”

Riddle has been hired by Los Angeles musicians including Dane Drewis, David Benoit and Jason Ferguson to play their events ranging from pop to gospel music.

“In my opinion, performing is the best part,” Riddle said. “It’s ones of the few times I get to act freely and be stress-free. It’s a great way to express your emotions without being judged.”

In the future, Riddle plans on attending a four-year university for jazz performance to perfect his skills as a musician. He also dreams of becoming a musician and going on tour.

“The music industry is an unpredictable medium,” Riddle said. “It’s hard to determine where it’ll move next. I will do whatever I think will improve my playing as well as my financial status.”