Cara Wang at Encore Summer Academy
Cara (AQF '25) shares her Cello Performance experience at the Encore Summer Academy and how it was a life-and-career-changing program.
"I recently wrapped up three exciting weeks, filled with inspiring concerts, dedicated practice times, and friendships at the Encore Summer Academy. I was so grateful to spend time there meeting faculty and peers who were just as passionate about honing their craft and helping others. With three private lessons a week, I was able to get a tremendous amount of feedback not only on the repertoire I was working on but also practical suggestions on posture, sound production, and my instrument that will support my life-long journey with the cello.
Beyond the lessons, we had eurythmics classes that helped me develop a better sense of rhythm, and yoga classes, which provided excellent opportunities for self-reflection. I also enjoyed field trips to the Oberlin Conservatory, Harkness Chapel, and other parts of the Cleveland area where I was greatly inspired by the welcoming and musical atmosphere of Ohio.
I am also proud to have participated in three community concerts, including one with my chamber ensemble and one with a 12-cello-ensemble (where I was lucky enough to be selected to play with faculty members Brannon Cho, Jonathan Dormand (Verona Qt), and Max Geissler). The Cleveland community was welcoming and warm with a strong commitment to the arts. Having grown up on the West Coast, I really enjoyed getting to experience and see other communities throughout the U.S. Throughout my time at Encore, there were several concerts, which introduced and immersed me in other styles of music beyond the classical music that I usually work on. I particularly enjoyed the concert with bass-saxophonist and videographer Nick Zoulek, who made full use of the hall, projecting artistic films in the background as he performed melodies and improvisations.
I am incredibly grateful for the Anthony Quinn Foundation's support of my musical journey and for allowing me to experience a life-and-career-changing program."
Cara Wang