Awards/Competitions
1st place, 2018 Hudson Valley Philharmonic VIP (Virtuoso-in-Progress) concerto competition
Appearances
Aspen Music Festival, 2019; New York Youth Symphony, 2017–18
What made you decide to become a musician? Was there a particular performance or person that influenced your decision?
I realized that there was nothing that made me feel the same way that music does, and I wanted to chase that feeling.
How did you hear about TŌN? What inspired you to apply?
I found out about TŌN online and it seemed like the perfect program and community for where I am in my music career.
What is the most memorable performance you ever had?
Performing Rachmaninoff’s 2nd Symphony in my first Carnegie Hall performance with the New York Youth Symphony.
What is your proudest achievement as a musician?
I feel most proud of the fact that I’ve been playing the cello since I was nine years old.
Is there a person or people you most respect in your field and why?
Artists with no formal training who are driven by their passion and creative visions.
Do you have a favorite non-classical musician or band?
Orion Sun
What is a surprising part of playing your instrument that you think most people don’t know?
I think a surprising part of playing any instrument that people often don’t realize is that internally we are all just singing and dancing. A lot of the work we do to practice our instrument is so that we can move with freedom and confidence to enjoy what the composer has created.
What advice would you give your younger self or anyone starting out?
Dive deep into what is exciting to you or what stirs you, and don’t be afraid to tell others about your feelings.
What do you wish you knew starting out that you know now?
Not every thought you have is true, try to focus on the thoughts that help you exist with greater joy.