I am a 21-year-old multifaceted and passionate violinist who recently graduated from the Royal Welsh School of Music and Drama (RWCMD) under the tutelage of David Adams, concertmaster of the Welsh National Opera. Through my hard work and passion, I have been offered an incredible opportunity to study for a master’s music degree with Daniel Phillips at one of the finest music schools in the world - the Aaron Copland School of Music, Queens College, NY.
In addition to the tuition fees, I need to cover accommodation, meals, US healthcare, travel, music and books. So far, I have received generous support from my family, a crowdfunding site and charitable foundations of £35,000. This leaves me with a remaining circa £36,000 to secure to accept my place.
My father served in the British Royal Navy. We were fortunate to see many parts of the world including being stationed in Norfolk, Virginia where I played with the Virginia Symphony training orchestra. These experiences provided me with the inspiration and confidence to explore other countries and cultures.
The chance to study with world-renowned violinist, Daniel Phillips, whose collaborators are Yo-Yo Ma, Gidon Kremer and Kim Kashkashian - household names of classical music, is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Queens College’s standards of teaching, performance and preparation for a professional career are outstanding. It has produced dozens of acclaimed musicians including Paul Simon, Carole King and symphony conductor JoAnn Falletta, faculty alumni have been nominated for or won over 100 Grammy Awards.
My violin teacher for the past four years, David Adams, described his experience at Queens College as “culturally rich, with inspiring staff and passionate students. I knew how to play the violin, but Queens College taught me how to be a musician”. David has stressed how Queens College would best help me to reach the extraordinary musical standards that he believes I can attain. My jazz mentor is award-winning multi-instrumentalist Orphy Robinson, MBE. Orphy’s extensive experience includes collaborating with virtuoso, Nigel Kennedy. Orphy has conducted me at world-renowned Ronnie Scott’s Jazz club. Orphy believes that Queens College will provide me with a unique opportunity to play both classical and jazz genres at the highest level. David and Orphy will gladly provide references.
The skills and experience I gain from Queens will help me to contribute to the wider community through teaching and inspiring young people about the power of music. I experienced this enrichment when I self-funded a trip to volunteer and teach at the Ballanta Academy of Music in Sierra Leone.
Any support to help realise my dream to make this first step in my ambition to lead an eminent international orchestra will be most gratefully received. This is a link to my GoFundMe page.
Comments