About Me

Hi, I’m Siya Setty, a senior at Lexington High School in Lexington, MA. I’ve been passionate about music and the arts for as long as I can remember, and I’m so glad you’re here to explore my journey! Whether I’m strumming my guitar, singing in choir, or spinning through a Kathak performance, the arts have always been my way of expressing myself and connecting with others. Here’s a little more about what I love to do.
Guitar
My love for music started early, at the age of five, when I began learning classical guitar at the Suzuki School of Music. Those early lessons ignited a passion for the instrument, and over the years, classical guitar has become central to my life. From performing at elementary school talent shows to competing in international competitions, it’s been an exciting journey. I’ve had the opportunity to perform baroque and modern repertoire, and during the COVID pandemic, I found solace in playing guitar, even giving back by performing for residents at a dementia ward. I also explored Jazz guitar for a few years, playing in bands at the New England Conservatory. This year, I’m excited to accompany my school’s chorus as both a singer and guitarist during our upcoming Spain tour. Classical guitar will always have a special place in my heart, and I hope to continue pursuing it in college.
Singing
Singing was something I fell into thanks to my sister, who was always the singer in our family. Inspired by her, I joined chorus in middle school, and I’ve never looked back. After being selected for my school’s honors chorus, I knew singing was going to be a big part of my life. As a soprano, I’ve had the chance to develop my voice through both school and community performances. I now sing in a nationally accredited select choir at school, and outside of that, I lead our student-run A Capella group, Euphoria. We choose our own songs, arrange them, and perform at gigs around the community. A Cappella has also introduced me to beatboxing, something I enjoy doing alongside singing. I’ve been lucky enough to participate in senior districts and the Massachusetts All State festival, and I’m eager to explore more singing opportunities in the future.
Kathak
Growing up, I was always fascinated by Kathak, a North Indian classical dance form, even though my roots are from South India. The fast spins, rhythmic footwork, and intricate storytelling captured my imagination, and I began taking classes in fifth grade after watching a mesmerizing performance in Agra, India. Since then, Kathak has become a part of my identity, and I’ve been learning and performing for years. I also started teaching younger students, sharing my love for the dance with others. Next spring, I’ll be doing my Manchpravesh, a debut solo performance that marks an important milestone in my Kathak journey. I’m excited to continue improving my technique and sharing this beautiful art form wherever my future takes me.
Through all these experiences, music and dance have given me a way to connect with people, explore different cultures, and grow as an artist. I’m thrilled to see where these passions will lead me next, and I’m grateful to have the opportunity to share my journey with you!
Spotlight Performances by Siya Setty: A Journey Through Music and Dance
- Siya Setty (9th grade) plays Danza del Altiplano by Leo Brouwer for the Youth Latin American Music Festival primary round.
- Siya Setty (9th grade) plays Danza Caracteristica by Leo Brouwer for the Youth Latin American Music Festival finals — Won second place
- Siya Setty (9th grade) sings Les Berceaux by Gabriel Fauré
- Siya Setty (10th grade) plays Fantasia para un gentillhombre by Joaquín Rodrigo for Lexington High School’s Concerto Competition — Accompanied by Alexandru Prigalo – Finalist
- Siya Setty (10th grade) sings La Serenata by Francesco Paolo Tosti
- Siya Setty (11th grade) plays Un dia de Noviembre by Leo Brouwer for the URI Guitarfest youth competition
- Siya Setty (11th grade) plays Parazula by Celso Machado
- Siya Setty (11th grade) sings Romance by Claude Debussy
- Siya Setty (11th grade) performs a medley at NHS talent show — Choreographed by Urmi Samadar – Won second place
- Siya Setty (11th grade) performs Kathak at the Indian Association of Greater Boston’s Independence Day festival at the Hatch Shell. Performances included: Raas (choreographed by Urmi Samadar), Garaj Garaj (from Bandish Bandits), and a contemporary-Kathak fusion (choreographed by Nandini Lal).
CONTACT ME
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