A Rare Opportunity for Student Musicians
Two SDSU students conducted the San Diego Symphony at its summer finale.
Two music majors from the School of Music and Dance had the opportunity of a lifetime to conduct the San Diego Symphony Summer Pops Orchestra during the summer finale “Tchaikovsky and Friends” concert in early September.
Sarah Davis
Chance of a lifetime
Sarah Davis and Peter Dayeh, performance students in harp and clarinet respectively, were selected by SDSU Symphony Orchestra Conductor Matthew Rowe after one of San Diego Symphony's major donors, Kent Baker, requested that two deserving students have the chance to hold the coveted baton.
On Friday evening, Dayeh conducted, with Davis taking her turn on Sunday. Both conducted “Dance of the Swans” from Tchaikovsky’s ballet “Swan Lake.”
An amazing experience
Peter Dayeh
”Conducting at the Pops concert was such an amazing experience!" Dayeh said. "How many people at the age of 21 can say they’ve played and conducted with the San Diego Symphony? The orchestra members were very supportive, and the crowd’s cheering only fed my excitement!”
Davis said it was incredible to stand in front of all the musicians.
“The conductor’s podium is an uncomfortable spot to be in. It was an entirely new experience to have 90 eyes watching and waiting for instructions. I am so grateful to the donor who gave me the opportunity."
