Shining Mountain Waldorf Alumna Sarah Gillis Makes History in Space
In an awe-inspiring feat that reaches beyond Earth’s limits and today’s global chaos, Sarah Gillis, a 2012 Shining Mountain Waldorf School graduate, made history by becoming the first person to play the violin in space.
Orbiting the Earth at over 17,000 mph aboard SpaceX’s Polaris Dawn mission, Sarah performed John Williams’ “Rey’s Theme” from Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Her music, drifting through the stars, wasn’t just a performance—it was a poignant reminder of the unity and wonder that humanity can create together.
But this magical moment didn’t end in space. It was a global collaboration with young musicians from El Sistema programs worldwide—from Venezuela to Uganda, the United States to Sweden. Their harmonies, downloaded from space via Starlink, symbolized hope and connection across borders, especially in a time of uncertainty. The concert raised funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and El Sistema, proving how art can heal and unite people.
Sarah’s journey to the stars has always been about blending music and science. From her early violin lessons with her mother to her studies at Shining Mountain Waldorf, she has always followed a path fueled by curiosity and creativity. Her encounter with NASA astronaut Joe Tanner during high school further ignited her passion for aerospace engineering, leading her to the Polaris Dawn mission. Sarah is a shining example of how independent thinking and artistic expression, values fostered by Waldorf education, can lead to groundbreaking achievements.
Her accomplishments don’t stop with her music. Sarah became one of the first two women to travel over 1,400 kilometers into space and the youngest to perform a spacewalk during the Polaris Dawn mission. Her journey has left an indelible mark not only in the realm of science but also in the hearts of those inspired by her artistic contributions.
As Sarah safely returned to Earth, her family, friends, and the world celebrated her extraordinary journey. Sarah Gillis reminds us all that, even in challenging times, the human spirit’s capacity for creativity, exploration, and collaboration continues to soar. She encourages us to reach for the stars, not just through science, but with the heart of an artist.
As a 1976 Green Meadow Waldorf School graduate, I couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of pride watching Sarah Gillis achieve such an incredible milestone. Though we graduated decades apart, there’s a deep, shared connection between Waldorf students—a belief in the power of creativity, independent thought, and the blending of art and science. Sarah’s journey is a tribute to her brilliance and a reminder of the values we hold dear as Waldorf graduates. Seeing her carry those values into space is a moment of immense pride, honoring her accomplishments and the spirit of our shared Waldorf education.
Комментарии