Columbia Classical Performers
Executive Board
Serina Chang, Advisor
CC '19
Computer Science & Sociology
Why did you join CCP?
I joined CCP because I believe so much in our mission and feel incredibly grateful for the role that we’re able to fulfill on campus. We serve our student body, filled with talented, passionate musicians who have amazingly stayed dedicated to their art despite how hard they also work at academics. However, finding performance opportunities can be tough, so I love that CCP can provide these special musicians with a solution and furthermore, invite their friends/family to support them firsthand.
Cindy Liu, Advisor
CC '18
English Literature
& Sociology
(Concentrations: Eating Like a Queen, Having Opinions)
Tell us about a favorite CCP memory.
Not a moment, but a feeling during concerts: that of sneaking a look at how the audience relaxes, or witnessing your friend slay some Berg, or stuffing a vine of grapes into your well-glossed mouth at reception. It feels like the sunrise that is the B Major Brahms trio. Or Kendrick at the start of Frank Ocean’s new “Sunrise To.” Quoi que tu veux.
Dean Deng, Vice President
CC '19
Computer Science
What are your favorite composers/pieces?
I’d have to go with Beethoven and Schumann. Beethoven is just profound to the point that you never are done understanding one of his works, and Schumann’s music really resonates with me on a personal level. For pieces, I'd have to say Beethoven's 3rd symphony, concertos 3/4/5, and his late piano sonatas, Schumann's piano concerto and piano quintet, Shostakovich's piano quitnet and piano trios, and a lot of Takemitsu's works for piano and strings.
Myra Deng, Treasurer/Webmaster
SEAS '19
Computer Science & Applied Math
Why did you join CCP?
I’ve played the piano since I was 4 years old, and I’ve also played the flute since I was 9. One of the most formative experiences of my life so far has been practicing and performing classical music. I didn’t want that experience to be diminished in college because to me, classical music is the best creative and emotional outlet there is.
Madelyn Baker, Secretary
BC '19
Neuroscience & Psychology
How did you become interested in classical music?
I was always drawn to music and appreciated Dallas Symphony Orchestra concerts (thanks, mom) from a young age. After some time in piano lessons in elementary school, I chose to play the flute in my middle school band and I haven't looked back! Every year I learn more about classical music and I learn to love it even more.
Officers
Vincent Gu, President
Dual BA Sciences Po/GS '18
Sustainable Development
What makes you most excited about CCP?
I am most excited about meeting passionate musicians and listening to what they have to express. Classical music is very diverse, and CCP is the place to not only exercise my own musical talent, but also learn from others and experiment with new ideas, styles, and forms of expression.
Nathan Rubene Dos Santos, Outreach Director
CC '20
Latin American Studies
What are you most excited about this year?
I'm most excited about exploring new forms of classical music events on campus: theme-centered concerts, expanding concert accessibility and knowledge of when they are, and possibly fostering partnerships with early music groups across the the city. The room for innovation is endless!
Jordan Lee,
CC '18
History & Computer Science
What makes you most excited about CCP?
I'm excited to bask in the excellent performances of my peers! CCP brings so many talented musicians together, and I can't wait to feel all of that energy buzzing in one room.
Concert Producers
Annie Nikunen
Barnard '20
Music
Why did you join CCP?
I wanted to be a part of a community that values the experience of sharing music together, with an understanding of all the different roles it plays in each of our lives.
Michael Hwang, Photographer
GS '18
Computer Science & Economics
How did you become interested in classical music? My interest in classical music stems from my mother, who is a professional violinist. Since childhood, I had the chance to attend many of her concerts and orchestra performances. For this reason, classical music became an integral part of my family, and I wish to continue this value here at Columbia. Although I do not play any instruments, I have the utmost respect for all types of musicians!
