Today we’d like to introduce you to Grace Williams.
Hi Grace, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers?
I initially never saw myself being involved with classical music. Especially playing an instrument like the double bass. In my freshman year of high school, it was either run laps in gym class or joined the orchestra. Me disliking physical activity as much as I do, I chose the latter.
Prior to this, I played the violin for one year in the fifth grade. That was my only real experience with an instrument. So of course, when it came time to pick our instruments for the first time, I instinctively chose the violin. My then orchestra teacher, Dr. Sheryl Lane, explained to me how the orchestra needed balance, and thus she encouraged me to try the double bass. It may sound weird but I was very intimidated by the instrument.
It was so big and differed quite a bit from the other string instruments in the orchestra. I was not excited in the least to play it. However, once I picked it up I could not put it down. Double bass awakened a passion for classical music and the symphonic world that I was unaware that I had. I gradually became more and more involved with the orchestra. This included being a part of ensemble conventions such as All-West and All-State.
When junior year came around, of course, college came into question. I had invested so much time into music and had developed such a love for it that I decided to major in it at the University of Memphis, where I am currently a junior and music education major. I am an active member of the symphony there and I am loving and cherishing every moment of it.
I have had many great instructors, Andrew Palmer, Sara, and John Cheigo to name a few. I am also fortunate to be currently studying with Jonathan Colbert at the University of Memphis. I am truly grateful for these individuals and would not be the musician I am today without them. I am extremely thankful to be where I am today and I am excited to see what the future holds for me and my bass.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road to success is a bumpy one.
Classical music, just like any other field, is a competitive one. I have had more than one audition or performance that has not gone as planned or as well as I have hoped. However, I would have to say my most persistent struggle has been balancing school and my personal career.
As many graduates will tell you, college is not easy. One can very easily get lost in the chaos. My schedule as a music education major can get very hectic sometimes. Despite being a music education major, my real goal is to play in a professional symphony orchestra and to overall become a renowned bassist.
Music education is my financial backup plan. During the school year, my schedule gets quite hectic. Trying to have a consistent practice schedule, with various classes, deadlines and performances is not an easy thing to do. However, I am managing it pretty well.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a double bassist and I specialize in classical and orchestral music.
As of late, I have found myself traveling and playing with different symphonies and ensembles, my most recent performance being with the Delta Symphony of Arkansas. I am most known for my flexibility. Despite a majority of my training being classical, I am a very flexible and creative player who partakes in many different genres of music.
I would say what sets me apart from others would be my ever-evolving musical aesthetic and style. My love for music is so great that I want to experience as much of it as I can. Therefore, I do not limit myself when it comes to new opportunities or experiences.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @gracious.bassist
Image Credits
University of Memphis
