At MusicFest Northwest, we’re thrilled to further our Alumni History Initiative by presenting insights from Grace Chastain, a recent Young Artist winner. Grace generously shared reflections on her time at the festival and the profound impact it’s had on her life. Here are some key moments!

 

MUSIC AND LIFE 

MFNW: Tell us as much as you would like about you and your life story. 

Grace Chastain (GC): I have loved music my whole life, and even though I didn’t grow up in a musical family, my mom knew she needed to put me in music lessons because I would sing all day long. I started with piano and began to pursue the cello when I was 12. I learned it on my own for a couple years and then started working with a private teacher. Auditioning for college was very difficult for me, but I was able to get a scholarship to Eastern Washington University where I earned my degree in cello performance and music composition. All of my professors were inspiring, helpful, and pushed me and believed in me even when I wanted to give up. Now I am living as a full-time musician which is what younger me would’ve always wanted. 

With great pride, MusicFest celebrates Grace’s remarkable accomplishments within regional professional ensembles and organizations. Her dedication extends to her successful private teaching studio and captivating performances with the Coeur d’Alene Symphony. Grace’s musical journey includes notable collaborations with the North Idaho Philharmonia and Candlelight String Quartet. Recently, she thrilled audiences with her Young Artist Division piece, the Lalo Cello Concerto, at the Emerging Artist Chamberfest in Canada. Congratulations to Grace for her unwavering hard work and commitment to her craft! 

 

ON MUSICFEST AND ITS IMPACT 

MFNW: How did being involved with MFNW impact your life? 

GC: MusicFest Northwest gave me the initiative to pursue learning an important piece of repertoire and celebrate accomplishing that goal. 

MFNW: Do you recall an adjudicator or feedback that made a difference in your life? 

GC: I appreciated that the adjudicators recognized my investment in the pieces I performed and my musicality, but also gave me feedback on ways to technically give me more expressive options and release the tension in my body. 

MFNW: What is your favorite memory of MusicFest? 

GC: My favorite memory from MusicFest was having my teacher, family, and fiancé there to support me and watch me perform for the competition. The adrenaline was invigorating and my accompanist and I were able to lock in with our interpretation of the music. 

At MusicFest, we are excited to witness our students’ receptiveness to the guidance provided by our esteemed visiting artists. Our mission is to cultivate relationships that encourage young performers to gain valuable insights that will shape and enhance their artistic journey throughout their entire career. 

 

OUTSIDE MUSICFEST 

MFNW: What does music mean to you? 

GC: Music is the most valuable medium of human expression, and preserves the human experience and the memory of those who have passed throughout history. 

MFNW: Do you have a favorite inspirational quote that has helped you on your journey? 

GC: “When a man is in despair, it means that he still believes in something.” – D. Shostakovich 

        “Do not only practice your art, but force your way into its secrets.” – L. V. Beethoven 

Grace’s remarkable story of how music and the MusicFest experience intersected with her life is inspiring and instills hope in prospective participants. Our aspiration is to establish a vibrant and welcoming festival where students can learn and grow musically while cultivating empathy, just like Grace did. Submit your application by February 1st for regular registration, and remember that need-based scholarships are available for those who qualify. If you are a MusicFest Northwest alumnus, we would be honored to include you in our Alumni History Initiative. Fill out this form today and feel free to contact our Program Manager, Payton, at pritchy@musicfestnorthwest.org.