Why Leadership in Classical Music Needs a New Face

02/12/2024 37 min Temporada 1 Episodio 4

Listen "Why Leadership in Classical Music Needs a New Face"

Episode Synopsis

In this episode of One Last Thing... We sit down with a first-generation Asian-American woman shares her journey of breaking barriers as a conductor in classical music. Raised in the Bay Area with a strict, academically focused upbringing, she was expected to pursue a career in medicine or engineering. However, her passion for music, discovered through high school band and leadership roles, led her to defy expectations and follow an unconventional path.She reflects on navigating a field historically dominated by white men, facing biases both as an Asian-American and as an American within the European-centric classical music world. Imposter syndrome and the challenge of balancing ambition with appreciation for her accomplishments are recurring themes.Her journey includes earning dual degrees in music and biology, rigorous training at Carnegie Mellon and Northwestern University, and achieving leadership positions with major orchestras. Along the way, she was inspired by representation, mentorship, and the collective power of ensemble music.Notable milestones include conducting at prestigious venues like Royal Albert Hall and creating educational programs that engage and inspire young musicians. She emphasizes the importance of diversity and mentorship in fostering future talent while remaining committed to her vision of making classical music more inclusive and impactful