SHELLEY ACKERMAN: Last Blog Survey

What has been the social highlight of the festival?
-Spending time with my friends. We have enjoyed watching movies, dancing, and hanging out. I have met some really inspirational and sweet people here....Emi, Carla, and Julia...I love you guys so much and will miss you terribly!!!

What has been the musical highlight of the festival?
-Playing the Rite of Spring, and just playing in a large symphony orchestra.

Did you have any pre-conceived ideas of the festival that were incorrect?
-I was not sure what the social "scene" here would be like. I figured that people would be less social than my friends at home and would mainly practice during free time

How have you changed since you’ve been at EMF?
-I feel like I have become a better flutist during these past weeks.

What other kind of things are your friends doing this summer? How do you think your experiences compare?
-I have three best friends at home. One of them is at Aspen Music Festival on cello. We are having very similar times, although her schedule is much less structured. Another one is a CIT at a camp back in California. She is working a lot - however, we have both been having a lot of fun. My third best friend is at home doing summer school...and I am assuming that I am having a better time than her..hehe.

Are you planning to come back next year?
-Definetly!


What would make EMF even better?
-The food at Guilford College isn't very good...better food would be great.

What are you looking forward to for yourself in the upcoming school year?
-I was invited to play in a concert series which I am very excited about. I will also be playing on the radio a few times and am excited to start my sophmore year of high school. I of course am exited to keep improving my flute playing.