Mary Ann Lane
Class of 2008
Majors: Violin Performance and English
Pensacola, Florida
When I was in kindergarten, an orchestra came to play at my school. I immediately fell in love with the violin and begged my parents to let me take lessons. Violin became a huge part of my life, so I had no doubt that my college experience would involve studying music. At Notre Dame, every Music professor has been a positive influence on my music career, especially my private violin teacher, Professor Carolyn Plummer. She possesses a teaching gift that few talented musicians can claim, and I owe her many thanks for her continual support.
In the summer of 2005, I participated in a 3-week Intensive String Quartet Program at New York University, where I took lessons and played with musicians from all over the world. I am currently studying abroad in Rome and taking lessons from Ingrid Belli, a violinist in Rome’s Santa Cecilia Orchestra. Both of these experiences have exposed me to different teaching approaches and musical environments, and I would encourage all music students to take advantage of programs such as these.
While my plans for the future are uncertain, I am confident that I will always be involved in music—whether it be through teaching, playing for my own enjoyment, or participating in an orchestra or quartet. Majoring in Music at Notre Dame is a rewarding experience, and I encourage any interested student to join ensembles and take music courses that the University offers. If you really love music, you won’t regret it.
