In the summer of 2025, I had the privilege of performing at the Boston University Tanglewood Institute (BUTI) Violin Workshop. It was more than just another summer program — it was a moment that made me feel truly seen as a musician.

BUTI has long been known as a place where young artists gather to study, perform, and grow under the mentorship of distinguished faculty and members of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Stepping into that environment, surrounded by musicians who shared the same passion and discipline, I felt both challenged and inspired. Every day was filled with rehearsals, chamber music sessions, and masterclasses that pushed me to expand my musical expression beyond what I thought I was capable of.

During the final concert, as I stood under the lights holding my violin, I felt something shift inside me. The hours of practice, the small moments of frustration, and the joy of discovering new interpretations all came together in that performance. It wasn’t just about playing the right notes — it was about communicating emotion, breathing life into the music, and sharing a part of myself with the audience.

That experience affirmed my belief that music is not just what I do — it’s who I am. Being selected to perform at Tanglewood reminded me that my dedication and persistence had led me here for a reason. It made me realize that my music could reach beyond my practice room and resonate with others.

Leaving Tanglewood, I carried with me not only new technical skills, but also a deeper confidence in my identity as a musician. It was a milestone that confirmed I was on the right path — one where passion and purpose meet in harmony.