New Student Profile: Tania Villasuso
Clarinetist Tania Villasuso is a member of Curtis’s 2017 incoming class. Below, she shares some thoughts about her path to Curtis and her experiences over her first week. Join us in welcoming Tania and all of our new students to the Curtis family!
What has been your most important musical experience until now?
Some years ago I had the opportunity to play the Mozart Clarinet Concerto as a soloist with orchestra. This concert was really special for me, not just because it took place in the National Auditorium of Madrid (the most important one in my country), but because my family and my clarinet teachers were in the audience to support me. Moreover, I had the opportunity to experience what the professional world of music looks like, and I could learn a lot from that.
How did you hear about Curtis?
One of my teachers in Spain told me about the school and how special it is, and he encouraged me to come and do the audition.
What’s something that stands out about your first week here?
Even though the whole week was amazing, the most surprising thing for me was discovering how humble and modest the students are, despite their enormous musical talent. I was a little bit scared when I arrived to the school for the first time, because I thought that it would be very hard for me to make friends. Due to the high level of the school, I thought that the environment would be very competitive and challenging. But I immediately realized that we are actually like a big family, and the students support and help each other no matter what happens. Everyone accepts the others the way they are.
What are you looking forward to most about attending Curtis?
I cannot wait to start my clarinet lessons with Mr. McGill, but I cannot wait to start playing with my colleagues as well!! I love chamber music and playing in the orchestra, and I’m really looking forward to starting rehearsals. This semester is going to be amazing!