Debutante Diaries

Debutante balls were the highlight of my favorite TV shows. Downton Abbey, Gilmore Girls and Gossip Girl each interpreted debutante balls and glittering dresses with spectacular style. They appeared magical and I never imagined I would have the opportunity to participate in one. In September, the McGill Schulich School of Music (where I studied violin) announced that the Austrian Society of Montreal was a generous patron and was accepting applications for debutantes and escorts. I decided to…


A McGill Violinist in Vienna

The story of my exchange to the University of Music Vienna Montreal in the fall. With the trees ablaze of colours and the bustle of students seeing old friends, I could hardly imagine leaving. But after watching a presentation on McGill’s exchange programs I knew I wanted to apply. Fast forward eight months, a language exam and visa application later and I was on a plane to Austria to study at the University of Music and Performings Arts Vienna. The first week of school in Vienna was spent…


Tales from Vienna Woods

The University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna (MdW) is famous for its impeccable reputation, prestigious alumni and international student body. Moving to a new country to study music requires a firm determination. Classes, concerts & working with musicians from different countries. Here is our story of a quartet`s first semester at MdW. The first few days During the welcome party the director was cautioning the difficulties of the upcoming placement auditions (at music school the…