Rising Voices: Two MacPhail Students Are Heading to Carnegie Hall 

Hard work and talent is taking two MacPhail voice students all the way to one of the world’s most celebrated stages: Carnegie Hall. Next month, Laila Elazab, 16, and Max Zhang, 12, will both perform as winners of the American Protégé International Vocal Competition. Laila will also perform as a winner of the Golden Classical Music Awards International Competition.  

Laila (Oksana Bryn Vocal Scholarship) has been studying at MacPhail since kindergarten. After starting with piano lessons, a teacher heard her sing and encouraged her to pursue voice. Over the years, she’s received multiple scholarships, won national awards, and found her voice singing in Italian, Arabic, and English. “You can really connect to different cultures when you sing in different languages,” she says. “To me, that’s the most beautiful thing.” 

Max (Mary Ann Kimball Vocal Scholarship) also started in piano before finding his place in singing. He loves how calm and centered he feels when he sings, even if performances can still be a little nerve-wracking. Through his lessons at MacPhail, Max has learned to sing higher notes, overcome stage fright, and even explore composing his own music. “I used to be very scared of going on stage and performing, but now I have more confidence,” he says. 

Both Laila and Max study with MacPhail voice instructor Dr. Mikyoung Park and describe her as instrumental in their growth. “I’m so thankful for Mikyoung,” Laila says. “I really don’t think I could be doing what I’m doing without her.” They also express gratitude for MacPhail and for the scholarships that support their musical journeys. “I probably wouldn’t have gotten into singing without MacPhail, and I don’t think I would have ever taken up composition,” Max says. Laila adds, “I definitely could not have pursued music without MacPhail. I’m so grateful for all the opportunities I’ve been given.” 

The young singers are thrilled to be heading to New York. “I always wanted to perform in New York,” Laila grins. “I almost can’t believe it — that’s the place I wanted to go to the most!” This will be Max’s first time performing away from home, but he’s taking it in stride. “I’m excited and nervous at the same time. I mean, it’s Carnegie Hall!” He concludes with a smile, “…but I’m more excited than nervous.”