The University Symphony Orchestra and Concert Band Performance

By Sofia Lamdichi | March 30, 2026

Photo Credit: Sofia Lamdichi / The ASP

It cannot be disputed that experiencing fine art, such as an orchestra performance, inspires you and leaves you feeling a little lighter when you exit the auditorium. The passion and hard work can be felt by every member of the audience, as students, parents, families, professors, and more watched the University at Albany’s orchestra performance on Wednesday, March 11. The people curating the experience for the audience relished in the same level of excitement regarding the display of their art. 

Before the performance, orchestra managers Keziah Job—who plays trumpet—and Jon Wolter—who plays percussion—spoke about their excitement and inspiration to join the orchestra. They discussed what they feel when playing pieces that illuminate the auditorium. 

Both managers were able to tap into their love for music when they were in elementary school. Their musical talents followed them until today, as seniors in college. They have always expected, upon entering UAlbany, that they would maintain their art in their lives; however, they did not expect to become leaders in their orchestra. 

Sitting with them and hearing about how they are so excited to play and how much joy the orchestra has given them has inspired me to look back at some pieces I played in middle school, so one can only imagine how it felt to sit in that auditorium as they played. 

When asked about which pieces they were excited to play, they answered:

“I am most excited for everyone to hear Champions of the Sky; it’s my favorite. I just love the way that the piece is structured. The slow parts are so pretty and nice, and the fast parts act as an exciting balance that feels great to hear and play,” said Job.

“Sounds basic, but Phantom [of the Opera]. It’s hard not to be excited for that, especially considering we have somebody singing with us. It is something that I personally have not done [before],” said Wolter. 

Being a part of any sort of community or organization is one of the most comforting and supportive things one can indulge in while studying at a university. Many times, it is what enriches your educational experience. When asked about what the UAlbany orchestra has brought to their lives, they stated: 

“I joined on a whim---and here I am three years later. I have met so many people, and I have been able to improve my skills and play some of my favorite pieces of all time. I have made a lot of connections, a lot of friends, and overall I have grown as a person,” said Wolter.

“I joined because he [Jon] asked me to because they were playing [pieces] from Star Wars and I’m a big nerd for that, and I’m still here. I have played some great pieces that I have even added to my playlist and have also met some of my greatest friends through the orchestra,” said Job. 

The UAlbany orchestra, alongside many other artistic communities here on campus, may be overlooked by UAlbany students; however, there is nothing more important than expressing yourself through art, and there is nothing more brave than sharing your art with those around you. The reason why one plays an instrument, draws an image, writes their thoughts, and records their voice is not to receive validation from others; it comes from the strong human desire to create.