Left: Ciku and Mason, back from their amazing trip! Right: Prof. Arnaud Ghillebaert, their instructor.
Our viola students Mason Nguyen and Ciku Maina earned scholarships to attend the Summer String Intensive at the University of Oregon!
Based on the quality of their auditions, both students spent a week immersed in private lessons, chamber music, masterclasses, and orchestra rehearsals. They studied with Professor Arnaud Ghillebaert and other top faculty, and performed alongside peers from across the region.
“It has been a treat to work with Ciku and Mason. Their dedication and receptivity is what every teacher wishes for,” said Prof. Ghillebaert, Associate Teaching Professor of Viola at the University of Oregon. He noted that it was wonderful to “see them work in their respective chamber groups, form friendships, and deepen bonds with other students.”
This is a major step for Mason, a rising high school senior who is seriously considering a career in music. You can hear him perform as soloist with the Seattle Symphony on October 29 and with the Federal Way Symphony on December 6. Please see our events calendar for more information.
