Sophomore Anderson Maziero from Bethpage High School recently took home the second place Best Essay Award in Stony Brook University’s 19th annual Japan Center Essay Competition. He was recognized for his essay submission, “The Sound of Drums Behind a Stage.” The essay competition was sponsored by Canon U.S.A. and challenged students to think outside the box and find a connection to Japanese culture in their life.
In Anderson's winning essay, he spoke about his family’s Japanese culture and how music has been a way for him to celebrate Japanese art. More specifically, he shared that his family created their own taiko group, Umisora Taiko, which led to him discovering his passion for music and performing. Anderson wrote, “Growing this second family of taiko drummers has brought a new world view into perspective. Seeing my hopes, dreams, and aspirations so clearly. Never could this have happened without that burst of energy that the art and culture of Japan gave me.”
As the second place winner, Anderson has been invited to an awards ceremony on April 20 at the Charles B. Wang Center at Stony Brook University where he will formally be recognized. He will also be awarded $1,500 and receive a Canon product.
Congratulations, Anderson!