Musician Spotlights
Soloist Spotlight
Lana Suran
Why and when did you start playing music?
I started taking lessons at the age of five in Stockholm at a local music school- What instruments did you play as a child?
Piano - What are some struggles or challenges, if any, you have overcome in your career?
I think the challenges in my life as a musician have meant different things at different times, a big challenge fifteen years ago seems like a very small problem today and so forth. One of the biggest challenges I faced as a younger musician was learning to let go, trust the process and be happy for my friends in a time where it seemed like everybody around me was having “bigger” success then I and winning competitions left and right. Thankfully this period didn’t last very long and I was able to actually use that time in a way that really benefitted me long-term. - If you were not a musician, what could you see yourself being?
I could see myself being a manager in the music industry or owning a beautiful bookstore. - Who were your early influences/inspirations?
Martha Argerich and Sviatoslav Richter - Who or what inspired you that was not music-related?
Books and Museums - What is your favorite musician or period of music?
I don’t think I can answer this one! It depends on what mood I am in during that specific period, right now I’m in a very Jazzy-period and listening to Keith Jarrett and Fred Hersch a lot. - Favorite piece of music to play and/or to hear?
Also very difficult! To play, I would say anything by Rachmaninoff, and to listen I would say anything by Bach.
Student Spotlight
Mary Hsia
Why did you pick SU?
SU offers everything I was looking for: a small, close-knit campus, a location close to home and the beach, and a strong connection with the Honors College. It felt like the perfect balance of academic opportunities and a supportive community.- When did you start playing an instrument?
I started taking piano lessons when I was about 5 years old and began playing the cello at 7. In middle school, I also played the French horn and mellophone in both concert and marching band. Throughout my high school career, I continued to play both the cello and horn in orchestra and band, which helped me develop an appreciation for music and a strong foundation in a diverse range of musical styles and ensembles. - Who is your favorite musician?
Jacqueline du Pré, the late cellist, performed with an extraordinary depth of emotion that made her performances truly unforgettable. In her interpretation of Elgar’s Cello Concerto, I was in awe as she captured the dynamic contrast between melancholy and hopefulness within the piece. - What is your favorite SSO moment?
One of my favorite moments with the SSO was playing Porgy and Bess with the American Spiritual Ensemble. It was so rewarding to witness everyone’s unique musical talents coming together to create such a powerful and enjoyable performance. It was also exciting to be part of such a large ensemble bringing music to life on stage. - What is your favorite Dr. Schoyen moment?
I enjoy whenever Dr. Schoyen borrows a cello from a player in the cello section to demonstrate a rhythm or technique. It is always interesting to see how Dr. Schoyen interprets a specific phrase in his style. - What are your future plans and aspirations?
After graduation, I hope to successfully become a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) and explore the business world in the DC area. I will also continue writing, playing music, and pursuing photography on the side. I am excited to explore new cities, stationery stores, and good eats!
Community Spotlight
Devon Bristow
Why and when did you start playing music?
I started playing the violin in the fourth grade. I was 9 years old, and I can’t even remember anymore what drew me to it, but I’m glad that whatever it was - my gut, my ears, or my future self - did- What are some struggles or challenges, if any, you have overcome in your musical career?
Returning to music after a few years away was a bit of a challenge. I couldn’t remember a lot of the terminology and notations written in my music and what they meant, but it came back to me more and more every time I played. - When did you join the SSO as a community member?
I rejoined the SSO in 2024 as a community member after being a student player from 2016 to 2018. I put a pause on music to focus initially on my BA, but then also my MA and adjuncting for the Salisbury University English Department and Honors College. I left teaching in 2023, started looking for a full-time position in higher education, and knew it was time to do something "good to me" again - that just happened to be coming home to music, and subsequently the SSO. - When you are not performing with the SSO, what do you do?
I perform at the Irish Penny with a few other local musicians, attend fandom conventions and other kinds of nerdy festivals, and work at Wor-Wic Community College! - Tell us something that we would be surprised to know about you.
Normally my experience as a musician is the surprise! In this case, I’ll share the fact(s) that I’m an only child and from a military family, so I moved every 3 to 4 years and have lived in Hawaii, Colorado, New Jersey, Maryland (the first time), New York, Texas, and then Maryland again. - Who or what inspired you that was not music-related?
My papa. He always encouraged me to be my best in a way that never made me feel pressured - only loved - and he was the best man I’ve ever known. My mom and I joke that he hung the moon and the stars. He and my grandma both passed recently. I miss them both every single day, and I always will. - Favorite SSO piece of music to play and/or to hear?
Symphony No. 2, Op. 132, Mysterious Mountain by Alan Hovhaness, especially the second movement. We performed this in 2017! - Favorite Jeff Schoyen conductor story?
My father attended one SSO concert. It was after that concert that he said, “Huh. That conductor of yours looks like he’s fighting bears on stage!” Sometimes, I don’t think he’s wrong. Sorry, Dr. Schoyen!