He is a two-time recipient of UCLA Barry Manilow Scholarship, sponsored by Barry Manilow and Concord Records, for "excellence in the art and craft of lyric writing." He is also a recipient of the NAMT Writers Grant (2012). in English Literature from Rutgers University. M.F.A. in musical theater writing form NYU in 2008 under the mentorship of William Finn. Appearing with Mr. Tsakalakos at Mr. Finn's Cabaret were Jeremy Morse, Cassie Slater, Shaina Taub and Christos Tsakalakos. Music Director was Salomon Lerner. Director of Production was Jeff Roundabush and Associate Producer was Shakina Nayfack. William Finn is Artistic Head of the Musical Theatre Lab at Barrington Stage Company.