Two Peterson School of Music Alumni Named to Utah Symphony
News related to:Diana & Joel Peterson School of Music · 2 min read
The Diana & Joel Peterson School of Music has reason to celebrate after two of its alumni were recently appointed to section violin positions in the Utah Symphony. Ellen Hayashi and Karen Ferry, both graduates of the school's pre-conservatory program, secured these positions in the spring, marking a significant milestone for the institution.
Hayashi, who grew up watching the Utah Symphony perform Mahler's Symphony No. 7, credits her early exposure to the orchestra as a child with sparking her passion for orchestral music. "The sound was absolutely incredible, and it was a moment that stuck with me. I wanted to be a part of that."
The audition process for the Utah Symphony is known for its rigor and competitiveness. Both Hayashi and Ferry described the process as demanding, with multiple rounds and intense preparation. Hayashi noted that the school provided her with the necessary training and a supportive environment to prepare for the auditions.
Karen Ferry, a founding student of the school, shared that her teachers nurtured her passion for the arts.
The audition process for Ferry was grueling, taking place over three consecutive days. "I couldn't even believe it."
Both alumni attribute their success to the comprehensive pathway to world-class music education provided by the Peterson School of Music. The school, which launched in 2008, offers a full-scholarship GRIT program to ensure access to high-quality instruction for students of all backgrounds. Through its curriculum and distinguished faculty, the school has been shaping the young musicians of tomorrow.
Hayashi and Ferry's appointments to the Utah Symphony are a testament to the effectiveness of the school's training and support.
The school's commitment to providing high-quality music education is evident in the success of its alumni.
The Diana & Joel Peterson School of Music stands as a beacon of musical excellence and education, shaping the young musicians of tomorrow. With alumni like Hayashi and Ferry securing positions in the Utah Symphony, the school continues to demonstrate the lasting impact of its educational approach.