Senior Spotlight: Audrey Smith (horn)

What AYPO ensembles have you played in and for how long?

AYCO- 1 year (freshman year); AYSO- 1 year (sophomore year); AYP- 2 years (junior and senior year)

A funny, favorite, or memorable AYPO experience?

I remember playing principal horn in Stravinsky's Firebird Suite in AYSO. That was an incredible experience. You could feel the energy in the hall as we were all playing.

What musician inspires you and why?

I am always inspired by so many mentors and professionals. My favorite horn player to listen to right now is John Cerminaro. But I'd say the musician that inspires me the most is my sister. She's a singer, and her voice is absolutely angelic. I love supporting her and watching her perform, and I know she's going to do great things.

Your advice for young musicians?

I'm sure younger musicians hear this, but I want to stress it because I know when I was younger, I didn't take it to heart. It is okay to make mistakes! Of course, you should work on your weaknesses when you practice, but don't be too hard on yourself. Celebrate your strengths just as much as you criticize your mistakes. Remember that you're in that honor band or youth orchestra because people think you sound good, deserve to be there, and want you to succeed! Making one mistake, especially when you’re young, doesn't mean you're a bad player. It means you're a real musician, because we all make mistakes.

What do you hope to do after graduation?

I'm excited to keep learning! There is so much I don't know about music, and about life in general. In college and beyond, I hope to never stop listening and keeping an open mind to any opportunities that come my way.