Andie Zhu, a senior at Lexington High School, is a violist planning to major in viola performance in classical music for college. Zhu has been playing the viola for nine years and studies the viola at Boston’s New England Conservatory. She also participates in the Boston Youth Symphony Orchestra programs every Sunday.
Zhu is a part of LHS’s Chamber Orchestra and plays several roles in the ensemble.
“I’m a part of the orchestra council. I help with the overall playing in the ensemble, and run events. We usually organize several potlucks and other fun events throughout the year,” Andie said.
Just last week, Zhu, along with other violists in Chamber Orchestra, organized an I Block performance in the library. They performed a variety of pieces, including “The Great Pumpkin Waltz” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”.
Because of the nature of classical music, performances are a regular event for musicians. Zhu explained the importance of performances and what they do for an audience.
“Everyone likes music. I mean it’s as simple as that,” Zhu said.
Zhu was responsible for programming and arranging the pieces played during the library performance. They were originally written for multiple instruments, but she edited them to be played for the violists.
“I really appreciated the work that Andie put in, especially so that we could more easily read and play the music. Ultimately, people enjoyed the performance,” Man said.
During the summer, Zhu took part in many summer classical music festivals, including the Senior Heifetz Program and the Bowdoin Music Festival. These summer festivals are a main source of inspiration in shaping her love of music.
“I’m a lot less shy than I was before and I’m not as afraid to talk. If I was not holding my viola, I was kind of scared to talk,” Zhu said.
Music has played a significant role for Zhu and she has found it to be a profound influence on her personal life.
“Generally in school, I’m too scared to say anything in class, but when I play music, I feel like I can actually share my opinions,” Zhu said.