Musical History

    Ever since I was a young child, music has been a part of my life. My mother, an elementary school music teacher, and my father, also an instrumentalist, greatly influenced and have always encouraged my passion for music. When I was young, my mother would sing me lullabies to sleep, and it always seemed that she had a song to sing about anything and everything. In addition to her job as a music educator, she was the director of music at our church, and I sang in the children’s choir there. I have grown up singing hymns and many religious songs, which have continued to be a part of who I am today. In addition, when I was young, my dad played the trombone in a community band. I remember watching countless concerts and parades, eagerly waiting for the day that I could play with him. Now, like my mom, I find myself always humming, whistling, or singing a song all the time. It’s like second nature. I just can’t help it because I love music and it makes me so happy. I know that my family will always support my love for music and me.   
    All throughout elementary school, music was my favorite class. I would always be on my best behavior, sit up very straight, and be extremely attentive. I suppose I took on the role as “teacher’s pet,” but I enjoyed every minute of that class. When the day came, in 4th grade, to pick instruments, I immediately knew that I wanted to play the French horn. It was very unusual, and while all the other girls wanted to play the flute or clarinet, I wanted to be different.   
    In middle school, I drifted from the horn, as I was accepted into Jr. Region Chorus and I was the lead in our middle school play. I wanted to perform as a vocalist. However, in the 8th grade, I began to take private horn lessons from Amy Emilianoff. She introduced me to so many new things about the French horn. She was an amazing teacher and player, and she truly gave me a love and appreciation for the horn. I also began playing “gigs” with my dad around Christmas time in churches. Playing with him is so fun and I still look forward to it every year.
I consider myself extremely fortunate to have grown up in a school district with such an emphasis and appreciation for the arts. In high school, I had so many amazing opportunities. My band and chorus directors have helped me gain confidence, professionalism, and musicality. Throughout high school, I participated in ensembles at the regional, all-state, and all-eastern level, participated in American Music Abroad, and I worked with numerous guest artists, such as the Boston Brass, Larry Lapin, Penn State’s own, Dr. Leach. All of these great experiences, exposed me to new music and new techniques, and inspired me to pursue a career in music.
    My most memorable experience, though, was performing at Carnegie Hall, my senior year. Both my band and choir performed. Being in this great historical hall was breathtaking. When our chorus sang O Magnum Mysterium, my eyes filled with tears. The moment was so magical and touching, and it is something that I will never forget. That moment finalized my decision to become a music educator, and I knew that I needed to have music in my life forever.  My high school directors have taught me that with full dedication and passion, amazing moments and accomplishments are made. Thanks to the inspiration of all my teachers and parents, I want to share my love for music with others by becoming a music educator.
    So far, my musical experience in college has been wonderful. In just one semester, I have gotten a chance to play in Symphonic Band, the Blue Band, a horn sextet, and Philharmonic Orchestra. I absolutely love my lessons with Professor Bontrager. She has pushed me so much since my very first lesson, and I feel that I have improved so much since I have been at Penn State. I cannot wait to see what the future holds for me musically.