Amy Jessee is the concert master of PC’s chamber orchestra – and she is only a sophomore. That’s right. Amy is the primo violinist in the orchestra. The lead violin chair. The one the entire chamber orchestra watches to make sure their bows are going in the right direction. And she’s in the class of 2010.

Amy’s experience is an example of the opportunities open to talented students to find music outlets at PC.  Not only is PC’s string program growing by leaps and bounds, but new students are finding a wide spectrum of options from bagpipe to choir to string quartet – and everything in between!

The North Augusta native, who also plays violin in the college string quartet, wasted no time finding her music at PC.  Her music of choice is orchestral, and she is intense about the kind and depth of her involvement.

“Over the past year I developed a recognition for and appreciation of learning to play classical music because it’s the foundation for every other type of music,” she said. “(Classical music) teaches you so much about techniques and basics and how music is made.”

Amy said her classical music lessons at PC have improved her playing dramatically even over the past year, providing her the assurance and skills needed to be a leader. Music theory classes helped her to see inside of her repertoire and to understand music from a fundamental perspective.

Plus, Amy raves about her professors.  “They go overtime to meet your needs,” she said. “The music faculty do their best to make sure you’re the best musician and student that you can be.”

Comparatively speaking, the English major and music minor hasn’t been playing music all that long, starting the violin only seven years ago. Although Amy thoroughly enjoys playing “fiddle music,” becoming involved with the chamber orchestra, and the total music program, has helped her make her mark in music.

Talented musicians-- like Amy-- choose PC each year. So, why did Amy?

“I wanted a small college, and I liked the environment when I visited,” Amy said. “It was inviting and personal. And PC is such a prestigious college.”

Amy has taken full advantage of the opportunities the music program afforded her.  This “fiddle player” hit the ground running and has not stopped running since.  Sounds like she has found her music.

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