2024 Senior Spotlight
Fried Music wants to highlight and congratulate our three graduating seniors this year.
AJ MCQUARTERS, cello
What college will you be attending in the fall? What major?
Bard College (Bard Conservatory of Music), I'll be majoring in music performance.
What words of wisdom do you have for young musicians in our program?
Practice, practice, practice! But beyond that, remember why you play this instrument and continue to nurture the joy and passion that comes with creating music.
What was your favorite part about studying at Fried Music?
My favorite part about studying at Fried is its profound sense of support and community. Being new to the area, Fried has welcomed me with open arms and has been a huge help in guiding me throughout the college process.
Do you plan on keeping music in your life in college? If so, how?
Absolutely! I will be in Bard's 5 year double degree program which allows me to major in music performance but also another field of my choosing!
VINCENT STRIVINGS, cello
What college will you be attending in the fall? What major?
I will be attending California Baptist University this coming fall. I will be double majoring in music and as well as possibly a mathematic intensive, pondering between applied mathematics or architecture.
What words of wisdom do you have for young musicians in our program?
Fried Music is an incredible resource for the young musician’s individual and professional growth. For any young musician coming into or already in the program, I would advise you to make connections with your peers and coaches and take advantage of all the time you have with your teachers, as every moment is an opportunity to gain wisdom.
What was your favorite part about studying at Fried Music?
My favorite part of going to Fried Music has been the student centric culture, specifically how it is appropriately rigorous and tailored to each student’s individual growth.
Do you plan on keeping music in your life in college? If so, how?
Thanks to Fried Music I am more prepared and motivated to pursue my musical endeavors, and keep music in my life.
HANNA BAE, cello
What college will you be attending in the fall? What major?
I'll be going to Wellesley College in Boston, MA, studying Media Arts and Sciences and Political Science.
What words of wisdom do you have for young musicians in our program?
You're bringing it upon yourself to stick with the program, respect everyone who's working with you and their time. You owe it to them and, most importantly, to yourself.
What was your favorite part about studying at Fried Music?
I've absolutely loved the amount of support I've gotten from everyone at Fried Music. Everyone truly cares for each other. I've also really appreciated the diversity of teachers I've been able to study with, it's truly such an incredible experience working with so many people.
Do you plan on keeping music in your life in college? If so, how?
Despite not majoring in music, I plan on auditioning for the Brandeis-Wellesley Orchestra and the MIT Symphony Orchestra. I also plan on continuing private lessons, and hopefully joining the chamber music institute on campus!
