About the Episode:

What does it take to pursue music long-term? As young musicians approach the college application process, many struggle to decide between pursuing music or academics. With so many external pressures and different opportunities, it can be incredibly challenging for young students to decide if and how they want to keep music in their lives.

In this episode, violist Amanda Wu shares her perspective on maintaining the joy of music in her life even after entering university. Listen to Amanda speak about her love for the viola, her experiences continuing her musical journey in her university’s symphony orchestra, strategies for avoiding burnout with her musical studies even while pursuing rigorous academics and extracurriculars, and advice for managing stress associated with recordings and performances.

About the Artist:

Amanda Wu is a sophomore at Yale University majoring in Neuroscience. She has been playing the viola for over 10 years and was a longtime member of the Seattle Youth Symphony Orchestra, where she served as the principal violist. In 2024, Amanda won 2nd place in the Viola Solo category at the WA State Solo and Ensemble competition. She participated in the Seattle Chamber Music Society Academy in Spring 2024 and was featured on Classical King's Northwest Focus Live with her piano quintet. She has also attended Interlochen Arts Camp, where she served as principal violist of the World Youth Symphony Orchestra. Outside of the viola, Amanda also enjoys long-distance running, discovering new hikes, and learning languages.

Intro/outro music: Walton Viola Concerto performed by Amanda Wu