Hometown: Old Tappan, NJ
Major: Flute Performance
Degree: B.M.
Class of 2012
Current Teacher: Fenwick Smith
Why did you choose to study at NEC and what do you like about studying here?
“I became interested in NEC because it is one of the best schools in the country to study music. In addition, there are a number of positive changes NEC is making in expanding the conservatory and continuing to make it a very ‘up and coming’ music school. I chose to study at NEC because of its wonderful faculty and mostly because of the playing opportunities NEC offers all of its students. Most other music schools do not have as much ensemble playing available for undergraduate students in their first couple years, and at NEC I have been able to participate in orchestra, wind ensemble, and chamber music settings consistently all year. Also, the classes that are offered, like orchestral repertoire classes and improvisation for non-majors, allow for students to become very versatile and well-rounded musicians if they decide to take the courses. NEC offers so many different opportunities to its students and it is really up to them to take advantage of these opportunities and make the most of their musical education.”
What type of pre-NEC musical activities were you involved in?
“Before NEC, I attended both the Manhattan School of Music Preparatory Division for two years and the Juilliard Pre-College Division for three years following. I also participated in the NY Youth Symphony for two years and the NY Youth Symphony Chamber Music Program for three years. I attended Greenwood Music Camp for four consecutive summers, and during my final two years in high school I also participated in both All-State and All-Eastern Music Festivals.”
What do you like about Boston?
“I really like that Boston is a college town and there are always other students walking around as well. I also really enjoy that Boston is such a cultural haven. There are so many music and art schools and several different performing arts venues and performances all over the city. One of the best parts of being a college student in Boston is taking advantage of the Boston Symphony Orchestra College Card, which gets us free BSO tickets--you definitely cannot get free tickets to NY Philharmonic concerts in New York!”
Can you think of a particular moment or experience at NEC that was memorable?
“I think our last Sinfonietta Concert with Hugh Wolff in Jordan Hall was particularly memorable for me. Jordan Hall is such an amazing concert hall to play in--it makes everything sound like gold. And being allowed to work with Hugh Wolff was an incredible opportunity. Our last concert with him was definitely one of our most exhilarating performances of the entire year.”
What kind of impact has NEC had on you?
“NEC has taught me how to continue to manage my time well, and has allowed me to further realize that music is what I want to be doing for a living and life-long career. Being at NEC has also expanded my musical horizons and I have been able to listen and learn about music beyond my major.”
What do you like to do outside of class?
“Outside of class I enjoy practicing! And just practicing. Just kidding! I do practice, but I also enjoy going shopping, jogging along the Charles, cooking, reading, and spending time with my friends.”
2010-07-01
CLAUDE DEBUSSY