“[Music] has really been an outlet for me,” Toni said. “Playing and singing [non-classical music] has let me feel so free. It was something that was mine. It’s always been a place I can go to whenever I want.”

The two friends will be attending Berklee college of music, in Boston, MA, that focuses on preparing students for careers in music through the study and practice of contemporary music. Both plan to major in performance.

“[Berklee] is one of a kind. It’s the only alternative college [or] conservatory. It’s such a revolutionary school for alternative music. When I say alternative, I mean anything but classical. You can create your own style. That is the reason I chose Berklee,” Toni said. “I really like to play jazz, blues and rock. If I went to any of the other conservatories, I wouldn’t be as happy [playing only classical music].”

Toni plays the upright bass, bass guitar, a little guitar and a little piano, while Morgan plays the violin. Both sing as well.

Toni and Morgan both received scholarships to Berklee after auditioning in Chicago in December and February.

While Toni knew she wanted to pursue music at the age of 9, Morgan used to want to become a writer.

“I think it was sophomore year I decided I could not see myself doing anything else but music. From that point on I knew I was going to [pursue music],” Morgan said.

The girls had known each other since freshman year orchestra, but did not become friends until their junior year.

“Our friendship started because of music,” Toni said. “I asked her if she wanted to play a gig at St. Peter fest to sing and play. Ever since then we’ve been jamming on the weekends, playing together and figuring out new ways to play the violin and bass together. We’ve made YouTube videos [of performances].”

The two have become close friends through KHS orchestra and their passion for music.

“We get along really well. [Our friendship] is pretty lighthearted. [Toni] knows me and how I work and vice versa. It’s really nice that we both play instruments together and share the same interests so we can encourage each other. We have a lot of fun,” Morgan said.