Arsh and Sana Wasnik are siblings in the MOTCC chorus, while this is Sana’s first year in Preparatory Chorus, Arsh has been with the program for four years and is a member of the Principal Chorus. Arsh has avidly participated in the chorus's outreach program over the years including collaborative events with Vista Maria and Capuchin Soup Kitchen.  The Wasniks participated in the recent outreach event at Brilliant Detroit. Arsh will be Bob Becket, the carpenter's mate, and Sana will be in the Preparatory Chorus in the spring production of  H.M.S Pinafore. ​

Fun Facts About Arsh and Sana: 

• Sana and Arsh both play musicial instruments, Sana plays the piano and Arsh plays the trombone
• Arsh made it into the All-State Orchestra this year
• Arsh’s favorite type of music is EDM
• Arsh wants to go into computer engineering when he graduates high school
• Before MOTCC, Sana was a dancer, her favorite type of dance is freestyle  
• Self-expression inspired Arsh to sing

My Favorite Memory of MOTCC:
“Getting into Michigan Opera will be one of my biggest accomplishments ever in my life.  I have been doing Michigan Opera for 4 years and I loved every single part of it.  One thing I will always remember is all of the memories that I will remember and friends I will never forget.  I’ve loved singing to everyone and making their day a better one.  Every aspect of singing, volunteering, and making friends has been a blast and it will always hold a place in my heart.” – Arsh
 
“When my mom told me I got into Michigan Opera I was so excited. This is my first year of Michigan Opera. I have learned so much from the theory books and the music piece. I love singing, and my teacher and friends. My favorite experience so far is working with my teacher and everyone in Michigan Opera.” – Sana 

Malaya Watson spent two seasons with MOTCC and performed in the production of The Very Last Green Thing before finishing eighth place on the thirteenth season of American Idol. While touring in the American Idols LIVE! Tour 2014 she worked on her debut EP, My Diary, and her unnamed album. She is currently attending Berklee College of Music as both a Composition and Contemporary Writing Major with digital singles, When I Was Your Man, The Long and Winding Road, Ain’t No Way, and Through that Fire. ​

Name: Malaya Watson
Hometown: Berkley 
Season in MOTCC: 

• 2008-09 Brundibár
• 2009-10 The Very Last Green Thing

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What was your experience like at MOTCC?
For me, MOTCC was my first time working professionally. The experience was refreshing; to be around people that have the same drive and interest as you musically is a tremendous feeling. It makes you feel like you belong somewhere, kind of like a family. It also exposed me to the classical side of music which I still enjoy to this day. 

Is there any advice you would give to students in the MOTCC now?
1. PRACTICE! When I first started, I was lazy. I didn't feel like practicing at all but I would go to rehearsal lost. Once I actually sat down and practiced at home, rehearsals would be a breeze and more enjoyable. Plus, the satisfaction from knowing you've got it all down is remarkable...at least to me
2. Listen to the people around you. That includes instructors and peers. Of course, like I always say: you take in what you allow yourself to take in and you leave pout what you allow yourself to leave out. But listen to the things people critique you on when it comes to music or your attitude in the work spaced. Analyze it and see if it applies to your life and if so how can you change it leave it the same or remove it all together. 
3. Stay true to who YOU are. Don't let other people's harsh opinions about you make you shift who you truly are. Coming from experience, it's hard to find yourself again once you've lost it. So, if you want to be a singer, be the best singer you can be. If you want to walk dogs, you walk those dogs like there's no tomorrow. Just always remember to be YOU.

What are your future goals and musical aspirations?
I'm going to become one of the biggest, if not THEE biggest performers while also film scoring, composing and MDing other artists.

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​What was your experience like at MOTCC?
I could write a novel about how amazing my time in MOTCC was. I made my professional and operatic debut in a major opera house and sang a minor, singing role in a staged opera production all before the age of 11! (I mean, come on! What 5th grade kid can say all that?) MOTCC changed my life in so many ways and led to many other wonderful opportunities. Almost all of my musical achievements can be traced back to MOTCC’s influence in some way or another. Singing with the children’s chorus not only uncovered my musical abilities, but taught me invaluable professional skills, the importance of being a reliable musician/person, and the value of hard work. I still credit this program for igniting my love for opera and theatre.

Is there any advice you would give to students in the MOTCC now? 
My main advice is to take it all in and to absorb as much as you can! As with all good things, they come to an end – someday you’re going to age out of this awesome program so enjoy it while you have it! Practice, ask questions, take pictures, stay in touch with your choir buddies, and remember to enjoy it while you’re there! You will miss it one day!

What are your future goals and aspirations? 
I want to sing professionally – that’s the big picture goal for now. It’s what I wanted to do at 10-years-old and it’s what I know has always been my ‘calling’. I love opera and want to make learning and performing for people my life. I also have several other interests, as well! Because of MOTCC, I have really come to appreciate the importance of quality music education for young people. I have also always had a passion for community service and volunteerism. I’d would love to find a way to be able to combine my love for both of these things!