Mandy Bell

Class of 2023

Jazz Band • Rock Band • Jazz Combo

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From San Marin’s music classrooms to the live music scene in New York City, Mandy Bell has continued to pursue her passion for drumming while studying interior design at NYU. What started with joining a band during her freshman year of college has grown into opportunities to perform at venues throughout the city, collaborate with fellow musicians, and record music in the studio.

Now in her senior year at NYU, Mandy has found a thriving musical community alongside her studies. After joining a band with friends at the end of her freshman year, she quickly discovered the abundance of opportunities to perform around New York City. What began as a fun way to make music with friends soon opened doors to new artists, venues, and recording experiences.

Career Highlights

Mandy has spent much of her college experience performing with different artists, playing live shows, and recording albums and songs in the studio. Among her favorite memories are performing for friends at the iconic Mercury Lounge and organizing a house show for approximately 200 people.

Sharing music with friends has been one of the most rewarding parts of her college experience. More recently, Mandy has also begun earning money for her drumming, an exciting milestone that has made her musical journey even more fulfilling.

“Just say yes to everything. That is certainly what has propelled me with my drumming.”

— Mandy Bell

REFLECTIONS & ADVICE

Looking back on her time at San Marin, Mandy credits the Rock Band program with teaching her valuable lessons about collaboration, creativity, and having fun while making music. Those experiences have carried directly into her involvement in New York's music scene.

Some of her favorite San Marin memories include four years of laughter with Ms. McIvor, traveling to the Santa Cruz Jazz Festival, and performing Zane Marshall's compositions with the Jazz Combo. She also fondly remembers the Olema camping trips during her freshman and senior years.

For current San Marin students hoping to continue performing after graduation, Mandy offers simple advice that has shaped her own journey:

“Just say yes to everything. That is certainly what has propelled me with my drumming.”

Mandy's story is a reminder that performing arts can remain an important part of life long after high school, creating opportunities for friendship, collaboration, and unexpected adventures, no matter where your studies or career take you.

Once a Mustang, Always a Mustang.