In the Artist's Studio with Anna Gale
Issue date: 2/4/10 Section: Arts
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House: Comstock
Hometown: Sylvania, Ohio
How long have you been performing?
Since I was seven or eight.
Tell us a little about what you are currently working on.
Right now, the solos I'm learning are the Dvorak Cello Concerto and Bruch's Kol Nidre. I'm playing the Schumann Piano Quintet in E flat with four lovely Smithies. Also, I'm learning the contemporary piece Nieges by Saariaho with the cello octet which will be performing at Mount Holyoke in April.
Were you involved in the arts before coming to Smith?
Very much.
What inspires you?
The possibility of thoroughly expressing the most intense feelings in the desire to be understood. I'm most inspired when I'm sad or angry. It's cathartic to candidly let those feelings out in vulnerable performance.
What is your favorite thing about the Valley arts scene?
I don't pay attention to the Valley arts scene. Someone always brings the important stuff to my attention.
Where would we find you on a typical Friday night?
Asleep in bed.
What kind of music do you listen to?
Define "kind." And define "listen."
Where can we see you perform?
Hopefully I'll be playing some intensely soulful Jewish music at the Commencement Concert in the spring. Before then, I'll be in orchestra and chamber concerts in Sage and JMG, maybe in the pit orchestra of Jesus Christ Superstar at the Academy of Music. Also, I perform in the clubs of NYC and surrounding area with a band called Shayfer James, but that's mostly on hold while I'm here at Smith.
Are you involved in any other forms of artist expression, even if just as a hobby?
Photography.
What do you aspire to do after graduation?
Travel? WWOOF? Brooklyn? Explore the West Coast? Israel? Guinea pig farm? Barbering or cosmetology school? Something in which I find happiness.
Who or what has influenced you in your work?
Family and teachers, everyone who's given me feedback intentionally and unintentionally, inspirational performers like Beyonce, expressive artists like Jacqueline du Pre and Nina Simone, growing up.
What is your favorite spot on campus?
Lyman Plant House.
What has been your favorite class that you have taken here at Smith?
Invertebrate Diversity and Intro to Sociology, but so far I really like Horticulture, too.
What is your favorite artistic utensil?
Film. The brain.
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