What year are you at Columbia and what are you majoring in?
I am a senior at Columbia majoring in Industrial Engineering & Operations Research (IEOR).
How long have you been a participant of the MPP?
I have been a participant in MPP since my sophomore year, making this my third year in the program.
How have you benefited by MPP programs and performance opportunities?
Classical music has been a very important part of my life from a young age, and MPP has afforded me an amazing opportunity to play with like-minded musicians and perform at on- and off-campus venues. I didn't have much chamber music experience before coming to Columbia, but MPP's coaches and collaborative programs opened my eyes to new and interesting repertoire. Through MPP, I was able to hold my own solo recital and perform with two of my chamber groups at Weill Hall, which was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
Any tips on how a student might be able to fully take advantage of all the musical offerings at Columbia?
Don't only keep up to date with official events and performance opportunities, but also get to know the participants; the MPP community is wonderful (students, coaches, and directors alike) and I've made many close friends through the program.
How do you balance the busy academic schedule with practice time?
I'll answer by rephrasing the question...I balance my academic schedule with music. I don't consider practicing to be another appointment in the schedule- it provides the stability, joy, and harmony (no pun intended) that keeps it all together.
What was the most memorable musical experience in your life?
Performance-wise, I'd have to say that performing at Carnegie Hall was the most significant. From seeing my mom sitting in the first row on the TV backstage to striking the final C-Major chord, the experience was truly unforgettable.
What does making music mean to you?
Music for me is the ultimate form of self-expression... a medium whose capabilities, for me, far exceed those of sights or words.
