Senior Spotlight: Chloe Dougherty
Senior music major Chloe Dougherty (Photo provided)
By Casey Ottaway, A&E Editor
What is your major?
I am a music performance major with an East Asian studies minor.
When did you first fall in love with making music?
Before I can even remember! My mom has shown me videos of me singing (horribly out of tune) to The Little Mermaid at three years old. I would sing it non-stop, on repeat; I was obsessed! One moment that I can remember that sticks out to me is from fourth grade. We had chosen and ordered the instruments we wanted to play and were waiting for them to arrive at the school. I was outside for recess and saw some workers from Menchey Music carrying instruments inside. I went up to them and asked very excitedly if they had any clarinets on their cart! I was so overwhelmingly excited to start my musical journey that I could not wait until the day my clarinet was delivered; It felt like years waiting for it to arrive. I was so happy when I was finally able to start playing.
What has been the most important part of your Conservatory experience?
Connecting with the professors! Because the Conservatory is so small, you will find yourself frequently working with the same professors over and over again. I was able to build good relationships with many of the faculty, and because of that, I have received many opportunities for leadership roles and other learning experiences. The professors also want to help you outside the classroom as well; upon learning of my plans to move abroad to teach, one of my Conservatory professors who immigrated to the United States offered to help me with the visa process. I cannot thank the faculty enough for everything they have done for me!
What are your plans for after graduation?
I am currently applying to teaching jobs in South Korea! I really want to teach while also living in East Asia, so I’m hoping I can find a job teaching high school students somewhere in Seoul.
Tell me about your recital.
As a music major with a minor in East Asian studies, I really wanted to tie my two fields of study together. I did lots of research into pieces written by Chinese composers for the clarinet, or pieces dedicated to Chinese clarinetists. My recital was a half-and-half fusion between European classical music and music by or inspired by Chinese musicians.
Which piece in your recital is your favorite to perform, and which one do you feel has been most rewarding?
My favorite piece definitely has to be “Colors from China’’ by Michele Mangani. It is both exhilarating to play and sounds absolutely gorgeous! The most rewarding piece, on the other hand, was Chen Yi’s “Chinese Ancient Dances.” The two movements implement extended techniques that are difficult to master, and require outstanding counting skills. It was very gratifying to take on the challenge that is this piece, and I was excited to share it with everyone!
What is your advice for future Conservatory students?
Make as many friends as you can, students and faculty! Connections are so important for both your social life during college and networking after you graduate. There are so many interesting people to meet on campus, and they all bring unique experiences. Ask the quiet person in your class to lunch! You will enjoy the company and gain a new friend!
This article originally appeared on page 20 of the December 6, 2021 edition of The Gettysburgian’s magazine
