Name: Matthew Bitz

Age: 18

School: S. H. Rider High School

Grade: 12th

Instrument: Violin

How long have you been playing your instrument?

I’ve played the violin since 4th grade, so around 8 years.

Who was your mentor? Amanda Hernandez

What do you like about playing your instrument?

I really love the repertoire that the violin has because of how old it is. There’s so many

genres and styles from different time periods you can play, at least when compared to

other instruments. It’s also an instrument based almost entirely on technique, which I

love to work on.

How long have you played in YSO?

I’ve been in YSO since 6th grade, so this season will be my 6th year.

What is your favorite thing about YSO?

My favorite things about YSO are the people. I’ve made some of my best friends through

this organization, all while playing more advanced music than you would normally find

at a high school level.

What are your favorite types of music?

My absolute favorite era of music is the Romantic Era, specifically with symphonies,

string orchestras, and small ensembles. In terms of modern music, my music taste is all

over the place. I enjoy lots of music in multiple forms, so I’ll probably like whatever you

throw at me.

What is your favorite musical piece and/or your favorite composer?

At the moment, my absolute favorite piece is Sibelius’ Violin Concerto in d minor,

specifically the 3rd movement of this concert. Coincidentally, this is the piece I’m playing

today! My favorite composer, however, would have to go to Tchaikovsky.

What are your future career aspirations?

In the future, I plan to attend medical school and become a cardiothoracic surgeon. In

addition to being in medicine, I would like to participate in a part-time local symphony

wherever I end up living.

When did your musical interests begin and what were they?

My interest in music actually started when YSO’s violin coach, Mrs. Sparks, was a

substitute at my elementary school during music class. She talked about how she was a

violin lesson teacher and after that, I ended up signing up for lessons with her and

auditioning for the WFYSO two years later.

What clubs/organizations (in and out of school) do you belong to?

Currently, I’m in the Rider High School Orchestra, Band, ACS Chemistry Club, National

Honor Society, Student Council, and I work as an associate at Kohl’s.

Anything else that you want to share? (what question do you wish I had asked that

I have not)?

I don’t have a question, but I do want to give a huge shoutout to all of the WFYSO parents (especially my own). Without your funding, fundraising, transportation, and

providing lessons/instruments for your kids, this organization would not have been

possible. My life has been pretty crazy the last 6 years, but I am really appreciative of the

WFYSO for always being there.

Even though I knew the apprenticeship would look different this year compared to last

year, I could not pass up an opportunity to work with a fantastic staff and private lesson

coach. Although it’s a completely different experience, I have had a lot of fun working on

one of my favorite pieces of all time and I am really glad that I chose to audition again

this year.