OUR STORIES
Adrian Wong
Sophomore, Composition
I am frustrated towards the lack of diversity in the programming of new music, especially works by Asian composers. Although the volume of and respect towards Asian-influenced music has increased recently, the risk of being typecast as a composer that writes only “niche pentatonic music” is still very real, and I hope to take steps to make people recognize that our music has the same merit as music in the canon.
Emily Hinojosa
Senior in clarinet performance
There are countless times where I've felt uncomfortable while pursuing a career in classical music. Once at a summer festival with musicians of the Philadelphia Orchestra, my coach singled me out and mocked me for not having an "American" last name. He said that nobody would be able to understand me, and I remember feeling so embarassed in front of my colleagues.
Lindsey Sharpe
Senior, cello performance
I can recall many times where I've walked into auditions that weren't blind. The judges, sitting five feet in front of me, didn't pay me much attention and clearly weren't expecting much from me. I can't help but think that this treatment was because of my race. However, after I played, the recognized my talent and realized that I could be of value to their orchestra/conservatory.