Senior Spotlight: Colin Surabian, Double Bass

What is your current AYPO ensemble?

Philharmonic (AYP)

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

AYSE 19-20, AYCO 20-21, AYSO 21-22, AYP 22-23, AYP 23-24

What college/university do you plan on attending this fall?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology to study Chemical Engineering and Music

What do you hope to do after graduation or your more long-term goals?

“At MIT, I hope to both study engineering (chemical or mechanical) and pursue music in its many forms, ranging from classical to jazz to rock. In college, I also hope to start/join several music groups/bands and experience the Boston music scene. Beyond college, I plan to continue my musical endeavors, especially by performing and writing music in my own groups, while also pursuing engineering through a business lens, possibly engineering and marketing different inventions to better the world.”

A favorite, or memorable AYPO experience?

“One of my favorite AYPO experiences was the first concert of the 2022-2023 season, where AYP played Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 4. The double bass part for this piece is one of the best classical bass parts that I have ever played, and I believe the rest of the bass section had a similar thought. We all had a blast rehearsing and performing this piece, with its fast, dynamic, and beautiful melodies throughout, and from playing this piece alone, all of us vastly improved our bass and orchestral technique.”

What musician, conductor, or orchestra inspires you and why?

“Dr. Dixon inspires me tremendously. Not only is he a fabulous conductor shaping the orchestra with powerful advice and rehearsal strategies and engaging musicians with his lively, outgoing, and humorous spirit but he also has incredible dedication. For every AYP rehearsal and concert, Dr. Dixon travels from Pennsylvania to work with the aspiring AYP musicians, ensuring the progress, learning, and success of AYP's multitude of student musicians. Dr. Dixon's incredible personality, dedication, and ability to prepare orchestras for strong concerts, has inspired me greatly throughout my music journey in high school and beyond.”

Your advice for young musicians?

“Never stop playing and never give up; music is anything but a linear process, and it will have a plethora of setbacks, and what matters is that you acknowledge the setbacks and approach them from a different angle. One of the most crucial pieces of advice that I can offer is that music is a form of art and expression that should be fun! Do not just focus on what is "required" of you at school, auditions, and different orchestras. Yes, these requirements are important, but what is more important is that you are enjoying the music. I did this by branching out from classical into jazz, rock, and funk, playing songs that I love and teaching myself skills of improvisation and stage presence in the process. Once you discover the things you love in music, the skills, techniques, and mastery will follow.”

Congratulations, Colin!