Hometown:
Sarasota, FL
Education:
Florida State University, Bachelor in Music Performance, April 2021
Mannes School of Music at The New School, Master in Music Performance, May 2023
Sommer Altier (24) is an American violinist from Sarasota, FL. An avid chamber and orchestral player, Sommer has served as concertmaster for both the Florida State University and Mannes orchestras and enjoys collaborating with musicians of all instruments. Sommer’s primary instruction at the collegiate level includes professors Corrine Stillwell and Rebecca Fischer. When she is not practicing, Sommer loves binging true crime podcasts and cuddling with her cat, Prince Biscuit.
What is something interesting that people may not know about you?
When I was in second grade, my elementary school had someone come in to teach us about cup-stacking. It is a sport of stacking cups in certain formations in a certain amount of time, and it turns out I was a natural! My P.E. Coach signed me up for the district championship and I ended up winning, beating all the boys in my class. It was one of the first times I really honed my skills on something and felt empowered by the results. Even though I’m retired from my career as an elementary cup stacking champion, I still think like one!
Name three of your favorite composers:
Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Dimitri Shostakovich, Maurice Ravel
When taking a break from music-making, what is your favorite thing to do?
Trying different coffee and exploring my city.
What are you most looking forward to this summer with the NRO?
I am excited to expand my orchestral repertoire and knowledge on how to be a supportive player from any part of the orchestra.