Carmen Bruno
Why did you chose to study at the Schulich School of Music?
I chose the Schulich School of Music mainly to study with my current teacher, Matt Haimovitz, but also to be a bit closer to home after having lived abroad for many years.
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Where do you call home?
My first home is Ottawa, ON. But I lived in Amsterdam for many years, and I have Dutch nationality, so that feels like home too.
Other than on stage or in the practice room, where might one find you?
In the kitchen, baking something unhealthy, but delicious.
What is one unexpected talent or pastime that you have?
I bake a lot of cakes, muffins, cookies, etc.
What would it mean to you to be named the winner of the Golden Violin Competition?
When I was in high school, I used to visit the Schulich School of Music quite frequently because my sister was a student here at the time. So I've known, and have held the school in high regard for many years. So it would be such an honour for me to be acknowledged by the Schulich School of Music in this way. And I'm sure it would make my sister very happy too!
Juan Delgado
Why did you choose to study at the Schulich School of Music?
In the summer of 2010, I was selected to participate at a free music program, Scotia Fest in Halifax. That was my very first time in Canada, and there, I had the opportunity to work and meet some of the string faculty of the Schulich School of Music, including my current cello teacher, Matt Haimovitz. After this wonderful musical experience, I decided to apply to do a master degree in music performance. I have been living in Montreal since then.
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Where do you call home?
I come all the way from the south of the Americas, Argentina. Because of music and education, I have lived in Italy (2 years), Boston (4 years) and now in Canada since September 2011. Therefore to me, this is a tricky question. I have had the great fortune to have terrific experiences in every country and I have met some of the most inspiring, talented, and wonderful human being a long the way. Even if I grew up in Argentina, I call it home anywhere in which you are welcomed....borders only exist in our minds...
Other than on stage or in the practice room, where might one find you?
At a small cafe or running in the Jeanne Mance Parc.
What is one unexpected talent or pastime that you have?
Theater and film. I studied drama for over 10 years and I was part of a theatre troop and got to participate in a few films.
What would it mean to you to be named the winner of the Golden Violin Competition?
It would be a wonderful recognition after having studied at McGill over 5 years and travelling around the world playing music and representing this prestigious University.
Joshua Morris (winner)
I was eager to get a chance to study with my teacher, Brian Manker, as I who I had had a trial lesson with and had really liked working with. I also liked the idea of living and studying in Canada, especially Montreal. I’m very glad I made this choice!
Why did you choose to study at the Schulich School of Music?
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Where do you call home?
I’m from the United States–Saint Albans, Vermont – but am quickly feeling at home in Montreal.
Other than on stage or in the practice room, where might one find you?
Most likely hanging out with friends or exploring more of the city.
What is one unexpected talent or pastime you have?

Maybe only unexpected for musicians, but I’m an avid sports fan! I’m especially passionate about baseball, basketball and soccer.
What would it mean to you to be named the winner of the Golden Violin Competition?

It would mean a great deal! It’s amazing that the school has such a prestigious competition for its string players. The previous winners have been wonderful ambassadors for the university, and it’d be such an honor to be a part of that.
Liz Skinner
Why did you choose to study at the Schulich School of Music?
I chose to study here because of my teacher Axel Strauss, the reputation of the school and faculty, and because I wanted to live in the multicultural and artistically rich city of Montreal.
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Where do you call home?
Victoria, British Columbia
Other than on stage or in the practice room, where might one find you?
Exploring Montreal. I’ve been enjoying discovering coffee shops, markets and many of the artistic outlets this city has to offer including art shows and concerts.
What is one unexpected talent or pastime that you have?
I love playing sports (especially soccer, baseball and basketball). I also coached baseball for a short time.
What would it mean to you to be named the winner of the Golden Violin Competition?
Being named the winner would be wonderful as it would be the realization of a lot of hard work, perseverance and dedication. Over the course of my time at McGill, I feel I have grown so much in how I play my instrument and approach music making through working with my teacher and through partaking in many diverse projects and concerts, and to have this recognized through this competition would be confirmation that I’m on the right track!
Teresa Wang
Why did you choose to study at the Schulich School of Music?
McGill has a great international reputation and Schulich was the perfect balance between performance and academic opportunities. It was also a good distance from home - not too far and not too close.
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Where do you call home?
I spent most of my formative years in Toronto, but my parents moved a bit east to Whitby after I started at McGill, so that's my new home base.
Other than on stage or in the practice room, where might one find you?
I like spending time with friends and going out for food, but I also value the precious time I have to myself at home where I can cuddle up with a mug of tea and watch some Netflix.
What is one unexpected talent or pastime that you have?
I liked to draw when I was younger, but nowadays I don't have as much time to do so.
What would it mean to you to be named the winner of the Golden Violin Competition?
I'm already so honoured to have been nominated alongside my esteemed colleagues, and I'm grateful for the experience and opportunity to perform. I always wonder how much of my interpretation comes through when I'm performing, so winning would be great confirmation that I am reaching the audience with my music. It would be a dream come true to have my name next to all the past winners and be acknowledged for my hard work.
