Accelerant student David (Year 10) has been accepted to attend an undergraduate tertiary degree at the highly acclaimed Boston's Berklee College of Music on a full scholarship.
"David’s journey through the Knox Academy of Performing Arts has been nothing short of remarkable,” said James Brice OAM, Head of Co-Curricular Performing Arts K-12. "Accelerating straight into the Knox Senior Big Band, David quickly established himself as an adept and mature musician among older peers, performing at major school and community events, and contributing to the ensemble’s three-time victory at the Sydney Eisteddfod Premium Stage Band division. His versatility has also shone through the Contemporary Music Studies program, where he twice won the Battle of the Bands competition and consistently impressed industry judges with his inspired performances.
“David’s incredible talent and stage presence make him a standout figure on campus, but it’s his generosity and team spirit off-stage that truly define his character. With every step, David has embraced opportunities to grow, inspire, and lead, and his future at Berklee College of Music promises to be as extraordinary as his journey so far."
Beyond the accolades, David’s journey reflects a deep commitment to collaboration, creativity, and humility. Earlier this year, he recorded a full demo album of original compositions – a testament to his artistry and leadership in music-making.
“When I entered Knox Grammar School, everything really began to take shape,” said David. “The absolutely awesome Knox Academy of Performing Arts department gave me so many opportunities under their contemporary music and jazz program. And from there I was able to explore so many different styles and learn so many new things. And through this, I was able to conduct a lot of workshops. I was able to learn a lot of things, including stage performance, including improvisation, how to communicate, and how to listen through music.
“Berklee being one of the best music colleges in the world, I felt just absolutely honoured and grateful to be receiving this opportunity.”
Learn more about David’s incredible pathway to becoming a Knox graduate in Year 10 and in turn relocating to the USA to attend College here:
21 September 2026
"When I think about my own time at Knox, I realise just how many different parts of this school have shaped me,” our 2026 School Captain Mani said, as he gave his final speech at the Valedictory Ceremony. “I came here as a Year 7 boy, I had absolutely no idea what the next six years would look like. I picked up a saxophone. I played football. I took up Cadets. I got involved in Social Justice and Service.
18 September 2026
Yesterday, the stands at Sydney Olympic Park Athletic Centre were a sea of Black and Blue as students, parents, coaches, staff and supporters came together to cheer on our CAS Track and Field team, with the Tartan Army leading the charge.
15 September 2026
In 2025, Knox Grammar and Wahroonga Prep joined the Independent Schools NSW 'Respectful Relationships: Proactive Education' initiative. The program is designed to strengthen a whole-school approach to respectful relationships, helping young people develop the knowledge, skills and dispositions required to build healthy and respectful interactions throughout their lives.
