Jennifer Choi | Life After Juilliard

Postcards From Juilliard Alums

Because I knew early at Juilliard that I would go on to pursue an orchestral career, I prioritized practicing orchestral excerpts and really focused on orchestral playing. I give Juilliard immense credit for my growth as an orchestral player—the auditions, inspiring conductors, excerpt classes with musicians from the New York Philharmonic, and guidance from the orchestra office have all played an enormous role in my career. In 2017–18, I was a fellow at the New World Symphony in Miami Beach; in the following season, I played with the Colorado Symphony as a professional orchestral cellist for the first time. And now I have joined the cello section of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. Never in a million years did I imagine myself relocating this frequently in such a short period, but I’m so grateful for each opportunity I’ve had. Whether it be in rehearsals or concerts or even just at home practicing, I’m constantly reminded of how fortunate I am to call this my job. To anyone in pursuit of an orchestral career, know that all of the struggle and effort is so worth it!

Jennifer Choi (Pre-College ’11; BM ’15, MM ’17, cello)