Music a universal language

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    By Bernice Madsen

    Many musicians in the Philharmonic Orchestra have the opportunity to perform individually as well as part of an ensemble.

    However, Megan Hopkin, a member of the orchestra, said playing as part of an orchestra is what she loves most about playing the violin.

    “I would rather play in an ensemble than play alone,” she said.

    Hopkin, a sophomore from Boston majoring in music, said playing in an orchestral setting with over 50 other violinists is overwhelming.

    But it”s comforting not being distinguished individually while playing, she said.

    “I kind of like the feeling that I can”t be heard,” Hopkin said. “It takes away all nervousness, shyness and worry.”

    Hopkin said as a result, she can concentrate on articulating the emotion of the music.

    “We are all expressing the same ideas and feelings,” she said.

    Jeremy Starr, another member of the Philharmonic Orchestra, said the ensemble comes together in expressing music as the universal language.

    “All over the world, music is the language people can all respond too,” he said. “We give people the opportunity to really grow and be edified.”

    Hopkin said each musician is still required to play in tune and do his or her part.

    “But there is a lot less focus on myself and more focus on the people around me,” Hopkin said. “I like that feeling.”

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