Alex Vo found his passion when he started playing the clarinet in sixth grade, and this summer he showed his passion with some of the best musicians in the world.
“So when I got to sixth grade, it was time to choose an instrument for the band, and I gravitated towards the clarinet,” said Vo.
Vo is currently a senior at Mustang High School and still has a passion for the clarinet.
When he heard about the Tanglewood Institute at Boston University, he made attending a top priority.
“We only focus on music. We have orchestras, wind ensembles and choirs, where we study under the best professors in the world,” said Vo.
Young people between the ages of 14 and 20 from all over the world apply and the process is rigorous. Only 30% of applicants are admitted.
“I had to spend hours and hours practicing excerpts, pieces and playing parts. I actually had to write a lot of applications and sentences. I had to get a letter of recommendation from my teacher,” said Vo.
Mustang High School band director Ryan Edgmon said:
He was home scrolling through his phone when he got the notification that he had joined the program.
“When I clicked on it, I knew I was inside and I literally screamed. And I was running around the house. Luckily there was no one in the house because it was such a shame.” Vo said.
But then the real challenge began. Vo knew this was serious as soon as he arrived.
“As soon as I stepped onto campus, I could hear my peers playing beautiful music. It was nerve-wracking because I knew they were great. I was thinking,” Vo said.
There is no doubt that Alex represented the school and state very well.
“I think it’s very important to note that he’s also a rock star college student. He’s top of his class and absolutely kills it in every part of his education,” Edmond said. Told.
Students who attend the BUTI program usually get music scholarships to college, and Vo scholars are really looking for high school seniors.
Vo doesn’t know which university he wants to attend. However, his long-term plans include him teaching music and performing symphonies.