Activities

2021 Alumni Weekend Concert - Symphonic Wind Ensemble

During my time with the Symphonic Wind Ensemble (SWE) at the University of Alberta, Dr. Angela Schroeder (conductor) allowed me to play the flute solo in the world premiere of "Evening Experience by a Pond," a composition by U of A graduate Jienan Chen.

SWE, comprised of the university's most talented wind and percussion musicians, set exceptionally high standards for its members, acknowledging the challenging nature of the ensemble's repertoire. Faced with this, I embraced personal responsibility for refining my skills. It was an environment where many of my fellow musicians were music majors, and as a physiology student, I grappled with a sense of imposter syndrome. Despite this, I actively engaged with my flute section and sought guidance from Dr. Schroeder, striving to navigate challenging passages with fluidity. Dedication to additional practice became paramount, ensuring my contribution to the ensemble's performance was not only effective but enriched.

Simultaneously, my focus extended to the intricacies of the solo. Collaborating closely with Dr. Schroeder and fellow musicians, we worked to interpret and present the piece in a manner that paid homage to the profound artistic vision encapsulated in "Evening Experience by a Pond."

In the broader context of my narrative, the convergence of my studies in physiology and my musical experiences serves as a testament to the transformative power of collaborative education. It goes beyond fostering technical proficiency, extending to a comprehensive understanding of the human experience at both individual and community levels. This intersection becomes a cornerstone of my journey, highlighting the importance of merging diverse disciplines for holistic well-being and social equity.

The artefact presented below serves as a tangible representation of the synergy between my commitment to collaborative education and the culmination of these efforts: the 2021 Alumni Weekend concert with the Symphonic Wind Ensemble. I am proud of my performance here, though I recognize the opportunity for improvement (such as intonation, dynamics, or phrasing).