Two alumni from the Diana & Joel Peterson School of Music have been appointed to section violin positions in the Utah Symphony, a development kdhnews.com reported as a rare achievement for a single local institution. Ellen Hayashi and Karen Ferry, both graduates of the school’s pre-conservatory program, secured these roles following a highly competitive audition process. The source notes that professional orchestra auditions often involve multiple rounds and hundreds of musicians competing for a position.
According to kdhnews.com, the musicians credited their training at the school, which is based in Salt Lake City, with providing the discipline and methodical preparation necessary to succeed professionally. Hayashi described music as an exercise in listening, collaboration and empathy, noting that her education taught her that musicianship extends beyond playing the right notes. She recalled watching the Utah Symphony perform Mahler’s Symphony No. 7 as a child, a moment that solidified her desire to become an orchestral musician. Ferry highlighted the mental endurance required during the audition process, which took place over three consecutive days. Both students said access to distinguished faculty and visiting professionals helped them envision viable careers in orchestral performance.
The school, formerly known as the Gifted Music School, maintains a mission to provide world-class education through its expansive curriculum and full-scholarship GRIT program, ensuring access for students of all backgrounds. Ferry expressed hope that their success stories would encourage continued community support for arts education in Utah. The appointments mark a significant milestone for the educators and students who fostered their growth from early training to professional placement.
For more information, visit kdhnews.com.