Hometown:
Decatur, Alabama
Education:
Eastman School of Music Bachelor of Music 2026 (expected)
Bio:
Kaitlyn McLaughlin is a violinist from Decatur, Alabama. She currently studies with Renée Jolles at the Eastman School of Music. She has served as concertmaster for various ensembles, including the Eastman School Symphony Orchestra, the Guilford Symphony Orchestra, and the Alabama All-State Orchestra. In previous summers, she has attended the Chautauqua School of Music and the Eastern Music Festival.
What inspired you to become a musician?
My grandmother gave me a tiny violin when I was 3 years old, and I wanted to play ever since!
Name your favorite composers and/or pieces:
Prokofiev, Brahms, and Amy Beach
What is an interesting fact about you and/or your instrument?
I currently play on a beautiful J.B. Guadagnini violin on loan from the Eastman School of Music
When taking a break from music-making, what is your favorite thing to do?
I love checking out new coffee shops and doing anything outdoors!
Why did you choose the NRO?
For as long as I can remember, playing in an orchestra has been one of my favorite things in the world. I decided that a full-time orchestra position was my ultimate dream when I was in high school, and that goal has shaped every decision since then. My decision to attend the NRO was a very easy one, as NRO is truly the next step in my journey towards a fulfilling orchestral career. At NRO, I will have the opportunity to learn so many staples in the orchestral repertoire and to work with so many wonderful conductors and colleagues, all while in the beautiful town of Breckenridge.