Hometown:
Chicago, Illinois
Education:
New England Conservatory, Bachelor of Music (2027)
Bio:
Lawrence Hall currently attends the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, studying under Todd Seeber of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and is entering the final year of his undergraduate degree. Previous teachers include Andy Anderson of the Lyric Opera of Chicago and Hannah Novak. Key mentors and influences on Lawrence’s playing include Dan Carsen, Kit Polen, Don Palma, and his father, Drostan Hall.
What inspired you to become a musician?
My high school teacher, Andrew Anderson helped me understand the value in music and the larger purpose musicians get to serve.
Name your favorite composers and/or pieces:
Shostakovich, Mahler, and (tentatively) Schoenberg. I think these composers have the widest range of intensity and beauty.
What is an interesting fact about you and/or your instrument?
The maker of my instrument, Jacques Gagnon, was notorious for tax evasion and was invited to leave Canada (and the US) as a result. I find this very amusing.
When taking a break from music-making, what is your favorite thing to do?
I am very extroverted, so I love spending my time with quality people! I also enjoy reading.
Why did you choose the NRO?
I love learning from my colleagues! Because the NRO does not have private lessons, I get to spend the entire summer figuring things out on my own and learning from the people around me, which in my opinion is an absolutely invaluable experience that you don’t really get at conservatory, or at least not in such a concentrated environment. I am also excited for the intensity of the National Repertory Orchestra! The focus that the schedule demands is intimidating, but I’m really looking forward to truly immersing myself deeply in the music we’re playing this summer!