Meriden’s 2024 Head Prefect Teresa Yang is taking the next step towards building her music career at The Juilliard School, after receiving a full-tuition scholarship to attend the world-renowned performing arts institution.
Teresa knew from an early age that the violin would be right at the centre of her life and career, and her time at Meriden has prepared her both musically and for life after school.
“Meriden has prepared me well for this journey over the last six years. I have learned so much as a student and grown so much as a person.”
“Music has been central for me. I can’t imagine my life without my violin playing,” she said.
Juilliard, in New York City, is one of the most prestigious music academies, boasting alumni who have gone on to have illustrious solo careers or have conquered the world stage in top orchestras.
For Juilliard in particular, around 2,000 of the world’s brightest young musicians apply for only 150 available undergraduate positions. Violin is also one of the most competitive instruments given its popularity.
Teresa travelled to the US in March this year for a live audition and interview, and found out she was accepted in April. She is taking on the magnitude of her achievement with typical grace and clarity, as she looks forward to what the next few years might offer.
“I’m really excited to meet new people and join a community of artists of such a high calibre. I’m looking forward to all of it: orchestras, chamber music, meeting new teachers and, of course, other students as well. I’ve heard it’s like a big family at Juilliard!”
Having joyfully accepted her application, Teresa will be travelling on tour with the Australian Youth Orchestra, performing at venues across Europe, including the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam and the Musikverein in Vienna.
Teresa will be flying back to the US later this year to begin a Bachelor of Music Performance, living on campus and joining the community of other exceptional artists from all over the world.
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