Connor began playing the viola in fourth grade. However, it was not until high school that he would develop his passion for classical music. It was here that he started private music lessons with Julianne Smith, and then Ian Hipps. During high school, he had the opportunity to audition, and play in the South Jersey Band and Orchestra, which was his first time playing in a full orchestra. When it was time for summer break, Connor would participate in the string camps held at Rowan University to further hone in on his craft. 

After graduating from Washington Township High School in 2021, Connor continued his education at Rowan University, where he had studied Viola Performance under Dr. Timothy Schwarz. During his time at Rowan, Connor played in the Symphony Orchestra conducted by Dr. Jianian Cheng, and the string ensemble led by Dr. Schwarz. Some of his favorite pieces played in the orchestra were: Mahler Symphony No. 1, Pulcinella Suite, and La Boheme. In his last year at Rowan, Connor held the spot for principal viola in the orchestra, and studied chamber music under Dr. Ana Tsinadze. He graduated May 2025, with a Bachelor of Music in viola performance.

When did you begin playing Violin, and why?

I started playing the viola in fourth grade! I remember seeing a cartoon character playing the viola, and thinking to myself how cool it was. It definitely influenced my decision on choosing between violin, and viola. I am very glad I chose the viola 🙂

What other instruments do you play, and what is your experience with them?

I also learned piano, but only for the four semesters required at school. I was ok. 

What are your personal goals as a musician?

One primary goal of mine as a musician is to keep practicing. I know that when I practice consistently, it makes me feel good, keeps me focused, and musically motivated.

Do you have a memory of a time when a musical concept or technique really clicked?  Something you’ll remember forever?

During high school, and the beginning of college, I became very interested with my right hand technique. I wanted to absolutely make sure that I had full control, and range over my fingers. So I would practice collé stroke with a pencil every day, for most of high school. I like the pencil trick, since you can practice collé on a pencil anywhere.

What is your favorite piece of advice from one of your past (or current) teachers?

My favorite piece of advice from a teacher I studied with, is to always breathe when performing. Breathing helps loosen tension, and we tend to hold our breath when we get nervous.

What was your most challenging moment learning an instrument

The most challenging moment for me when I was learning the viola, was finding the best amount of comfort for the connection of my shoulder, and chin to the instrument. It took me most of my years at college to find the right shoulder rest, and chin rest.

What is your biggest musical achievement?

My biggest musical achievement for me was putting on my senior recital. My last semester was a very busy one- there were many other recitals I had to play in beside my own, and on top of that the orchestra was learning Hansel and Gretel. It was difficult to balance so many performances, and to not burn out by the time my senior recital came up.

Favorite thing about teaching?

When a student becomes excited about the piece they are learning, or the technique they are learning.

What is a piece of advice you would like to share with anyone learning music?

Since I have been playing for a long time, I have learned that everyone has to start somewhere. It is not fair to yourself, if you compare yourself to other musicians.

Personal music projects: