Kayla Manansala

Hometown

Fontana, California

Education

California Baptist University, Pre-Nursing, 2024-Present

Instrument

Cello

Biography

Kayla Manansala is currently a student majoring pre-nursing at California Baptist University, where she plays the cello and studies under Dr. Moon. She began playing the cello at the age of ten and as previously studied with Mrs. Michele Tacchia. She played in Summit High School's advanced orchestra and symphony orchestra as well as non-profit youth orchestra, Symphonie Jeunesse Orchestra in San Bernardino.

What inspired you to go into music?

My mom learned the piano when she was five years old and has played the piano throughout her life, and she encouraged me as well as my three older siblings to learn the piano. Along with the piano, my three older siblings all play the violin. When I was five, I remember my mom taking me to one of their orchestra rehearsals and asking me to look at all the sections and choose the instrument I wanted to play. I chose the cello.

What is an interesting fact about you?

I used to compete in spelling bees from fifth to eighth grade and almost made it to a statewide competition, but then the pandemic hit, and I was considered too old to compete anymore. :(

What activities do you enjoy in your spare time?

I enjoy hiking, reading, embroidering, watching movies, and going to the beach.

What are you most excited for about this 2024-2025 season?

I'm excited to meet other musicians and play symphonic music with others because it's a completely different balance and dynamic than playing purely with string instruments.

Favorite Musical Quote:

"Music is there for everybody. It's a river we can all put our cups into and drink it and be sustained by it."

-John Williams