Hometown:
Carson City, Nevada
Education:
University of Massachusetts Amherst Bachelor of Music 2023
University of Maryland, College Park Master of Music 2025
Bio:
Eleanor Sturm, a passionate orchestral musician and private teacher currently in the D.C. area, has performed as concertmaster with the University of Maryland Symphony Orchestra and the Tahoe Symphony. In addition to the NRO, her past summers have included fellowships at the National Orchestral Institute, Kent Blossom Music Festival, and National Symphony Orchestra Summer Music Institute. Her teachers include Dr. James Stern and Elizabeth Chang.
What inspired you to become a musician?
I joined the Reno Philharmonic Youth Orchestra program when I was nine years old, and going to rehearsal was always the highlight of my week. My passion for orchestral playing has continued to grow over the years!
Name your favorite composers and/or pieces:
Johannes Brahms, Sergei Prokofiev, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Antonio Vivaldi. Even before I played violin, I especially loved Tchaikovsky’s ballet music because I studied ballet when I was young.
What is an interesting fact about you and/or your instrument?
I was born in England to American parents, and we moved to the U.S. when I was one year old. I’ve never had the opportunity to return but hope to someday.
When taking a break from music-making, what is your favorite thing to do?
I love to play board games and watch movies with family and friends.
Why did you choose the NRO?
I chose to return to the NRO because of my amazing experience last summer. I learned an immense amount of music, worked with incredible conductors, and connected with musicians with similar career goals to my own. I am thrilled to be returning to such a beautiful location and am especially looking forward to performing this season’s challenging repertoire and meeting new people!