Photo submitted to the Times Observer Flora Bilott, seventh grade pianist and Warren County Junior Miss, is pictured at the Frewsburg Old Fashioned Christmas parade.

This article is part of the “Meet Your Neighbor Monday” series, highlighting the stories of individuals who make Warren County a special place to live. If you have a suggestion for a person to profile, email jrex@timesobserver.com.

Flora Bilott loves music.

In fact, the seventh-grade homeschooled Tidioute girl is the Pennsylvania winner of the National Federation of Music Clubs’ Junior Essay Contest for her ability to express in words what making music means to her.

National Music Week is the first full week in May, with the club’s essay contest held in January. Bilott, the daughter of Ben and Denise Bilott, was one of 62 entries and 21 state winners. The essay topic was “Music: Our Constant Companion.” Bilott ‘s essay reflected on how music affects our daily life and how the brain releases dopamine, affecting our well-being.

“What I love most about music is its ability to be there for you in every situation,” Bilott said. “Without a doubt, no matter the mood, music understands it and is therapeutic.”

Bilott will receive an official congratulations, a certificate and a monetary award. Her essay, photo, and bio have been sent to the Jr. Keynotes Editor for publication in the next issue of the Jr. Keynotes Magazine.

Since its founding in 1898, the National Federation of Music Clubs has grown into the world’s largest music organization with club and individual members of all ages. Chartered by the U.S. Congress and the only music organization member of the United Nations, the organization promotes and supports American music, performers and music education. Within the organization are regional divisions. Students across the nation are given opportunities to advance their musical education and showcase their talents. For more information, visit www.nfmc-music.org or specifically for Pennsylvania, visit pfmc-music.org

Bilott isn’t just a one-note performer. She has a brown belt in karate, is an active member of 4H who participates in the Multi Species Club, the Kinzua Creative Snappers and the Warren County 4H Teen Council, where she is the reporter. In addition, Bilott was crowned Junior Miss at the Warren County Fair. A member of the Junior Schubert Club, Bilott takes private piano lessons from Amber Shay Nicholson in Tidioute.

“Flora joined my piano studio last spring, about a year ago,” Nicholson said. “It has been a real joy to work with her on developing her piano skills.”

Nicholson said Bilott is now preparing for the National Federation of Music Junior Festival to be held at Geneva College on March 7, where she will be judged on her performances of two memorized piano solos, two hymns, and a music theory exam.