KLASSIKOM=Innovations in classical music
Paloma So’s Harvard Journey
Description
Following her recent concert tour to Guangzhou and Beijing, violinist Paloma So is returning to the United States to continue her studies at Harvard University. While the transition from the concert hall to the classroom might seem like a leap, So views her Ivy League education as vital nutrition for her growth as a musician. Though she is an economics major, So’s academic interests are vast and varied. She actively takes classes in government department and romance languages, specifically French, and everything from Roman history to cosmology. For So, this interdisciplinary path is essential because she believes that to be a great musician, one must first be a well-informed, well-read, and well-rounded human being. This liberal arts education provides her with a broader perspective, allowing her to see music as a small but profound representation of humanity and art within a ginormous world. So describes Harvard as an incredible and unique community that provides inspiration beyond the classroom. She highlights the privilege of being exposed to top-tier professors and even the occasional lunch with a Nobel Prize winner. Her peer group is equally diverse, consisting of talented actors, writers, and athletes who may one day lead the world. Her typical day mirrors that of many students - attending classes, catching up on work, and reading on the lawn. However, her schedule has a musical edge. Every Tuesday, she travels to the New England Conservatory for her violin lessons. She prefers to practice in the evenings or at night, as that is when she feels her brain is most active and she has the most to say musically. While some might see a double interest in economics and music as a fork in the road, So’s career goals have been fixed since childhood. She has always known she wanted to be a professional soloist, noting that the violin brings her immense joy and fulfillment. Rather than distracting from her musical path, she sees Harvard as a supplement that helps shape her into the artist she hopes to become. Interviewed on May 2nd, 2026 at the Xinghai Concert Hall in Guangzhou. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit klassikom.substack.com [https://klassikom.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1]
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