What brought you to Canada?
I like a new adventure! Well, honestly, I am the type of person who is curious about the culture in some countries. I lived in China for seven years and went back to Indonesia for eight years, and I felt that I was too comfy to be in my own home country. Thus, I decided to get out of my comfort zone.
Now, I am taking on a challenge by pursuing my master's degree at UBC.
The other reason that I came to Vancouver is that my godparents are living here, and I feel so loved by the people surrounding me.
What's the best vacation you've ever had?
In 2018 I had a 45-day backpack trip to the EU with one of my best friends. We encouraged ourselves to be brave and show our family and friends that we could do this adventure, and we did it! We managed to travel to eight countries and more than 60 cities without any prior planning. And surprisingly, we managed to keep the expenditures under our budget (despite spending four days travelling by flight). Through travelling, I've learned about being independent, more organized, more patient, and brave to ask questions. I've gained some music knowledge by visiting many music museums, conservatories and watching a live orchestra performance (one of them was the Berlin Philharmonic!). Such a memorable trip!
A typical weekend for me is…
Well, I am a music teacher so the weekend is often for working. Although I am busy, I will usually spend time with family over the weekend. However, since I moved to Vancouver, I can't just stay home on the weekend; the beautiful nature of BC has encouraged me to explore the great outdoors.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
1) Practice smart, don't be lazy! I know that I have some musical talent inside.
2) Force my parents to buy me a violin! I really regret that I did not start my violin training early.
3) Be brave to open my mouth to ask questions, and to say thank you. (I was too introverted).
What is it about PRISMA that inspires you?
I heard about PRISMA in 2019 through friends; they encouraged me to apply for the program. When I read the descriptions on the website, PRISMA inspired me to become a professional musician.
PRISMA has a beautiful two-week program for young musicians interested in becoming professional orchestral musicians as their career—with an excellent and challenging orchestral repertoire trained by a highly skilled conductor. The feeling of meeting new international friends and working together as a team within two weeks is an experience that is memorable.
I am also very impressed with the people in Powell River. In such a small and beautiful city, the residents appreciate classical music. Their enthusiasm makes me more excited to visit and join the festival.
I was a PRISMA 2021 student; Now, I am working as the Academy Manager in PRISMA; I am so lucky to work with great and kind people surrounding me. I hope I will give my best to PRISMA, and am excited to be back in person for PRISMA 2022.
