I joined the New York Youth Symphony Orchestra and Chamber Program in September 2012, and the Apprentice Conducting program in 2013. Being a part of three New York Youth Symphony programs has given me a unique perspective. The conducting, chamber music, and orchestra programs never conflict, and being a part of each improves my experience in the other two. From the detailed, intimate rehearsals in chamber to our programming exercises in conducting, New York Youth Symphony has exposed me to the musical process from the viola section to the podium. I am thrilled to be surrounded by students who share my musical passion each Sunday. One of my favorite things about New York Youth Symphony is how well the orchestra balances reaching a high level every concert with maintaining a comfortable learning environment. New York Youth Symphony has introduced me to some of my closest friends, and each time we perform at Carnegie Hall it feels as electric and new as my first performance.

Update, February 2016: Ian is now a freshman at Yale University.