How old were you when you first learned to play an instrument?

I started playing the flute when I was 11 years old. I was about to enter the 6th grade and wanted to join the band, so I decided on the flute because my mom played it. I had tried some other instruments before, but the flute clicked with me. Everything came pretty easily to me, and I enjoyed playing it! My middle school band director always encouraged me to strive for excellence and to consider taking private lessons. I started lessons in 7th grade and continued to improve! Once I reached high school, I joined a youth orchestra under the direction of another great conductor, who encouraged me to pursue music in college. The rest is history!

How often did you practice when you were a kid, and how have your practices changed since you became a professional?

I started piano lessons when I was 8 years old, but found it quite dull. My teacher always assigned me the same music week after week, and I wanted to move on to new pieces. Looking back now as a teacher, I realized she did that because I never practiced (I actually didn’t know what practicing meant)! Once I started flute lessons, I had a teacher who taught me how to practice effectively and how practicing in that way helped me improve. I always wanted to practice more in high school, but found it hard to find the time with all of my schoolwork. I loved being in college because I could practice as much as I wanted! I would sometimes practice as much as 7 hours a day. Of course, your practice habits change as you get older, and now that I am out of college and a new mom, I am lucky to get a whole hour a day. I have shifted my practice to focus on quality over quantity. I spend less time practicing but focus on precisely what I need to work on to make the most efficient use of that time.

What is your best advice to students who want to learn a new instrument or improve their playing?

Remember that music is meant to be fun! Do not put too much pressure on yourself or compare your progress with others'. The best way I have found to improve my playing is to record myself regularly. You can start with just warm-ups or scales and then progress to complete pieces. You hear everything so much better when you aren’t actively playing it. It may not be very comforting at first, but remember that only you are listening to it!

When you are not performing or teaching, what do you like to do?

My other hobbies include reading, drawing, painting, baking, playing board games, and playing video games. I love spending time with my family, whether it's going on hikes or playing games together online. I love exploring the Boston area, as I've recently become a new resident! Tell me about your favorite places to eat food and explore in Boston!