AFA News

What was your introduction to music?

I started playing cello when I was five. My mom was an amateur musician, and my siblings studied violin and piano, so I wanted to follow in their footsteps. I initially wanted to play violin, but my mom convinced me otherwise through playing lots of Yo Yo Ma CDs.

When did you know you wanted to be a music educator?

I decided to pursue music professionally when I was 15 years old. I’ve always been equally interested in performance and pedagogy! I view it as my responsibility to pass on the knowledge and wisdom I’ve learned from my mentors to the next generation, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to do so.

Do you have a favorite genre you like to perform?

Chamber music is my favorite genre, and it’s impossible to pick my favorite repertoire! From the standard repertoire, I love the music of Beethoven, Schubert, Fauré, and Brahms. Some contemporary composers I enjoy include John Adams, Jessie Montgomery, Michael Gordon, and Eleanor Alberga, among many others.

What would be your advice to a young musician thinking about a career in the arts?

Patience is key, trust the process, and stay diverse with your interests. It’s easy when you’re young to have tunnel vision regarding ideas of artistic perfection or what a career in the arts “should” look like, but staying versatile with your creative interests and humble in the pursuit of your craft will serve you well for years to come. Commit yourself to the long haul and always look for opportunities to use your music to connect with others.

What do you enjoy most about teaching and performing?

I’m most grateful for the relationships I’ve developed through pursuing music, whether with audience members, students, or fellow faculty members and performers. Music creates a common ground for us all to connect and have valuable conversations that encourage growth, trust, and camaraderie!