SCHOLARSHIP IMPACT

ALUMNI SCHOLARSHIP

Boston native Paul Halberstadt (NOI+F 2017, ‘18) began his violin studies when he was just four years old. His nearly twodecade journey with the violin has led him to the Eastman School of Music, where he is pursuing undergraduate music performance studies. He has funded his academic studies through a variety of meritbased scholarships that make it possible for him to continue growing as a musician without excessive out-of-pocket expenses for himself or his family.

I have a five siblings, so when I made it into Eastman, I knew I couldn’t burden my parents with the full cost of my training.

Paul Halberstadt

The National Orchestral Institute + Festival was Halberstadt’s first collegiate music festival. It would change the way he makes music forever. “NOI+F had an impact in virtually every aspect of my music career,” he shares. Opening night was a chance for Halberstadt to quickly learn and perform like professionals do. In addition, the conductorless Take the Reins concert awakened a sense of leadership and musical communication he had never experienced. “Having solo teachers advise me during ensemble rehearsals is virtually unheard of. Masterclasses. Seminars. Solo Coachings,” he says. “NOI+F was a holistic experience you rarely find in your training.”

In addition to receiving scholarships to attend the Institute, housing expenses for Halberstadt’s residency were generously funded by NOI+F sponsors. “Being able to commit to NOI+F early on in my development was a career-changing gift. I would have been unable to attend NOI+F without sponsorship,” he adds. “I simply did not have the resources.” And, among the highlights of his time at NOI+F was the chance to connect with those who made his residency possible. Off-stage he was able to share a homemade meal with his sponsors: “It was the most amazing food I’ve had in years!” Halberstadt says.

Since his time at NOI+F, he has continued to advance in his orchestral studies, working with violinist Joshua Bell and conductor David Zinman, as well as serving as a concertmaster with the Eastman Philharmonia. Halberstadt’s professional engagements have also included appearances with Glenn Falls Symphony, Rochester Philharmonic, ProMusica Chamber Orchestra and Symphonia Orchestra of Syracuse.

University of Maryland’s National Orchestral Institute + Festival has nurtured the advancement of America’s most gifted young orchestral musicians for more than 30 years. To learn more about how to make an impact, contact Norah Quinn at naquinn@umd.edu or 301.405.6485.

“The National Orchestral Institute + Festival is one of the region’s most treasured cultural and educational gems. Performances are all awe-inspiring. And, witnessing the growth and transformation of tomorrow’s orchestral stars is an absolute joy. I am honored to support the brilliant young minds who will elevate and transform the nation’s orchestras for generations to come.”