Drumming in the Rain

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Rain Zhao plays guitar, piano, and drums.

Alumni Gym erupts with thunderous applause and cheers, a symphony of support reverberating through the bleachers filled with students standing, clapping, and screaming with uncontainable enthusiasm. From the court, Rain Zhao sits behind her drum set, while Mark Wang wields an electric guitar. Together, they have just concluded their original rock 'n roll instrumental titled "Hydrophobic Faucet" — a tour de force of power, energy, and virtuosity. In that moment, the duo etches their names into the annals of musical history at MSA.

Reflecting on the milestone, Chris Celella, the Fine Arts Department Chair, declares, "Rain Zhao and Mark Wang instantly became legendary figures at Spring Honors that morning."

Rain Zhao herself acknowledges that she defies the mold of a typical drummer. With a smile, she shares, "After Spring Honors, some of my classmates and friends confessed that they were taken aback since they had no idea I played the drums. I guess I don't fit the typical 'drum' person stereotype in everyday life."

But what exactly is a "drum person"? When most people envision rockstar drummers, images of rebellious men like Tommy Lee from Mötley Crüe or Steven Adler from Guns N' Roses spring to mind — long-haired icons with an insatiable "appetite for destruction," epitomizing the energy and aesthetics of their onstage performance.

At first glance, Rain Zhao might not match these preconceived notions. One might expect to hear the soft, rhythmic beats of the Christmas song "Little Drummer Boy" rather than the thunderous beats of a true rockstar drummer. However, Rain Zhao quickly dispels any doubts once she begins to play. She embodies the essence of a pure rockstar.

Rain is a versatile musician and performer. She embarked on her musical journey at the age of three, starting with the piano, and later picked up the guitar at twelve. "My parents guided me into the world of music through the piano, and I chose the guitar and drums based on my own interests," Rain explains.

It wasn't until she turned seventeen that Rain received permission to delve into drumming. "I wanted to play the drums when I was in primary school, but my mom rejected the idea due to the instrument's loudness. However, during the Covid year, while I was studying virtually at home, she finally said yes." Though she began later than some, Rain's prior experience with piano and guitar laid a solid foundation, enabling her to swiftly find her rhythm behind the drum kit. Coupled with nine hours of practice per week, Rain transformed into a formidable drummer within a year of picking up the drumsticks.

Upon her return to MSA, Mr. Celella recognized Rain's unwavering drive to excel in drumming and wholeheartedly supported her. "Mr. C played a pivotal role in my musical journey. He encouraged me to perform at Spring Honors and urged me to make use of all the resources in the music classroom. He inspired me and granted me the freedom to create my own music."

Mr. Celella saw the rockstar potential in Rain Zhao. He recognized that she needed a platform to showcase her talent, understanding that the same fiery spirit and musical prowess displayed by drumming legends like Tommy Lee and Steven Adler radiated through Rain's passion and energy on the drums.

Rain observes that music and her personal journey as a performer have imparted valuable life lessons. "Playing music has taught me the importance of embracing life and pursuing what you love, as well as the power of creativity," Rain reflects with introspection.