LANGSTON HUGHES II
JOURNEY FROM STRATHMORE ARTIST IN RESIDENCE TO JUILLIARD
AIR alum shares how he got into the jazz studies program at one of the world's most prestigious music conservatories
My time as a Strathmore Artist in Residence (AIR) has been an invaluable experience that has greatly impacted my journey as a young musician and, recently, my journey with the audition process at Juilliard. The multifaceted lessons I learned during my residency have had a transformative effect on my approach to the music and self-presentation during the audition.
I’m super stoked to announce that I've been accepted into The Juilliard School and will be continuing my graduate studies there this upcoming year! God is good! I started my undergraduate studies as an engineering major at Howard, and now I’m preparing to move to NYC to study at one of the best music conservatories in the world! I have a lot of work to do, but I'm excited to continue on this journey forward!
Strathmore fostered an environment that encouraged me to embrace the uniqueness of my sound. Rather than conforming to predefined norms or conventional expectations, I was inspired to explore and celebrate the diverse range of influences that shape my style. I think this helped set me apart from the pool of talented applicants.
One of the most significant takeaways from my time at Strathmore is the realization that representing oneself well is important. Through the seminars, personalized coaching sessions, and guidance from AIR mentors, I came to understand that being a successful musician extends beyond the technical proficiency of one's instrument but entails creating a meaningful experience for the listener and establishing a connection beyond the music.
My journey as a Strathmore AIR not only refined my musical abilities but also instilled in me a holistic understanding of what it means to be an impactful musician. The lessons in self-representation, the pursuit of meaningful connections, and the celebration of individuality have helped shape my artistic identity and hopefully set the stage for continued growth as a musician at Juilliard and beyond.
ABOUT THE STRATHMORE ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE PROGRAM
A flagship program of Strathmore’s Institute for Artistic and Professional Development, the Artist in Residence (AIR) program was created in 2005 to support artists as they transition to professional careers. Since its inception, the program has mentored over 100 musicians, ages 16 to 32. Every year, a class of six is chosen after a competitive selection process. Strathmore’s AIR benefit from the support of mentor musicians, participate in professional development seminars, and are offered extensive performance opportunities throughout the 10-month program. Strathmore.org/AIR
Program sponsored by Cathy Bernard/Bernard Family Foundation♪