by Samskrith Raghav ’25
In this special feature, we have the pleasure of talking with Ethan Zuo, a senior at Bellarmine, who has not only made his mark as a talented musician but also as an innovative maker in the school’s Maker Lab. Ethan’s unique journey bridges the worlds of music and engineering, culminating in the creation of a pipe organ using the resources of the Bellarmine Maker Lab.
Recorded in April and aired on KBCP, this interview delves into Ethan’s musical background, exploring the various instruments he’s mastered and the genres he’s embraced. Together, we’ll uncover the intricacies of the pipe organ, its history, and its fascinating characteristics as both a wind and string instrument. Ethan shares the motivations and inspirations that led him to build an organ for Bellarmine, reflecting on the engineering challenges and musical rewards of this ambitious project.
We’ll also discuss the role of the Maker Lab in enabling Ethan to innovate and refine his organ designs, and hear about his experiences performing on the organ he built during the school’s Christmas mass. Lastly, Ethan will offer insights and advice to aspiring makers, and reveal his plans for continuing his musical journey in college.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation that highlights the power of creativity and the seamless blend of art and engineering.