KIPP JOHNSON: End of Festival Survey

What has been the social highlight of the festival?

The social highlight of the festival was probably the day we went to the waterpark. It was great to get to spend a day relaxing and getting to know everyone outside of the musical setting. I also enjoyed playing soccer and basketball in the afternoons, and then hanging out or going for food in the evenings.


What has been the musical highlight of the festival?

Playing music, I would say the Rite of Spring concert was the highlight, but for overall musical highlights, I would have to say getting to hear the faculty perform, specifically the Shostakovich Cello Concerto, the Mozart Horn Quintet, and Pines of Rome.

How have you changed since you've been at EMF?

I've learned a lot about how musicianship changes in an orchestral setting. The playing responsibilities as a member of a section in an orchestra are different from being a soloist or an individual musician. My biggest change has been how I approach my playing, both in the orchestra and outside of it. I'm coming to realize the level of focus and concentration required to do justice to the music. Its about playing the music and not just the notes on the page. I feel like I'm starting to take more risks and be more adventurous in my playing in trying to understand and convey what the music is about instead of focusing on the purely technical side of "playing the page".

What are you looking forward to for yourself in the upcoming school year?

I will be auditioning for graduate schools and orchestral programs, so I'm excited to be moving on to the next level for my education.