‘Everyone is supportive of each other, including the teachers. Genuinely, I’ve never been in a music environment that feels so healthy,’ says the cellist
I chose the Glenn Gould School because I wanted a small conservatory environment where I knew I would be getting a very specialised education. I came to take a tour as a high school student and was immediately drawn to the building. The facilities are beautiful, and there was an atmosphere of such warmth in the hallways and camaraderie between students that I knew I just had to come here.
I very conveniently live one block away from school, so I usually practise at home in the morning, and then I have two to three classes per day, so nothing too busy. It’s really nice that even as undergraduate students we get a lot of time to practise, since that’s what I’m here for: to hone my craft. We also have chamber rehearsals and coachings throughout the week, and Fridays are left free for masterclasses.
I have two cello teachers, Hans Jørgen Jensen and Andrés Diaz, who come on weekends to give lessons. Some might think that’s tricky to balance, but their teaching styles complement each other really well and they’re the most inspiring mentors I’ve ever had. Jensen also has studio classes, and it’s nice to play for each other and get feedback from peers. It’s a very tight-knit vibe, an environment that I feel is rare.
The school is quite central in Toronto, and it’s a very nice area. One of the entrances is on this beautiful path called Philosopher’s Walk, and you can just take a lovely walk in the middle of the day. Koerner Hall is practically inside the school, and it’s amazing because we can get student complimentary tickets and attend performances from world-class musicians. Also, the school offers opportunities for real-world performance experience, so we can sign up to the gig list and get to sub with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra.
There’s no unhealthy competition and everyone is supportive of each other, including the teachers. Genuinely, I’ve never been in a music environment that feels so healthy.
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