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

About the Episode:

One of the most important aspects of music learning is our relationships with others. Whether it's the friends we make at youth orchestra, the people we meet at summer programs, or the mentorship of our private teachers and chamber coaches, there's so many valuable opportunities to connect with and learn from other musicians.

In this episode, violinist Tony Wu speaks about his origins as a violinist and pianist, the inspirations he receives from peers and professional musicians, strategies for maintaining musical passion along with academics, techniques for efficient practice, and advice for building supportive musical relationships.

About the Artist:

Tony Wu, a 14-year-old violinist and freshman at Northville High School, began studying violin at six and has since earned top honors in international competitions, including the Radda Rise, American Protégé, and Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra Young Artist Competitions. He currently studies with Mrs. Enoria Li at the University of Michigan and has trained at renowned programs such as Interlochen Arts Camp, the Jacobs School of Music String Academy, and Center Stage Strings. Beyond performing and working with youth orchestras such as the Michigan Youth Symphony Orchestra, Tony shares his music through community recitals at senior homes and enjoys video games, listening to all kinds of music, and watching movies and TV shows in his free time.

About the Episode:

The majority of classical musicians begin their instruments at very young ages - largely due to their parents' wishes rather than their own. This lack of choice combined with the stress and pressure of competitions, daily practice, and comparison with other musicians often compound to burnout and loss of enjoyment through music.

In this episode, singer, songwriter, and guitarist Sophie Wickersheim offers a insightful perspective towards appreciating and creating music. Listen to hear Sophie speak about the process of songwriting, her experiences with musical theater and concert choir, her inspirations for creating music, and her advice for pursuing what you truly love.

About the Artist:

Sophie Wickersheim is a singer, songwriter, and guitarist from Seattle, WA. A long-time member of show choir, Sophie also actively participates in theater productions and bands. Check out her music (Sophie Emerson) on Spotify and Soundcloud!