New Student Profile: Mekhi Gladden

Oboist Mekhi Gladden is a member of Curtis’s 2017 incoming class. Below, he shares some thoughts about his path to Curtis and his experiences over his first week. Join us in welcoming Mekhi and all of our new students to the Curtis family!

What has been your most important musical experience until now?
My most important musical experience until now would have to be attending the Brevard Music Center Summer festival in 2015 and 2016. I’ve met some of my best friends there and really discovered my love of playing while I developed my skills in order to audition for Curtis.

How did you hear about Curtis?
I heard about Curtis through the Atlanta Symphony Talent Development Program. This program is based in Atlanta and promotes classical music performance to minorities through mentorship with ASO musicians. They have sent some students to Curtis in the past and I learned a lot from them as examples.

What’s something that stands out about your first week here?
One of the funniest things that happened this week was watching the skits performed by returning students to show what not to do during a performance. Their acting was impeccable, and I feel like I learned a lot while also having a good time.

What are you looking forward to most about attending Curtis?
Playing and performing music in every setting possible with as many people here as I can. I also really want to get to know as many students as possible and really develop a sense of community here!

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