Career development lectures, a signature of YMSQ’s comprehensive musicianship curriculum, have struck a chord with students. This semester, the school orchestrated four inspirational lectures on musicians’ professional journeys, with internal and guest instructors. These experiences continuously compose students’ understanding of the “musician” identity. For the finale lecture, violin virtuoso Shawn Moore, fresh off his performance at the Menuhin-Bard Night Concert, guided students in an enlightening exploration of Bard College.

Demystifying Liberal Arts, Cultivating Well-Rounded Minds

Shawn Moore is not only an esteemed violinist, but also the Bard College China representative. Previously, at the June 13 Menuhin-Bard Night Concert, he and Bard faculty, together with YMSQ President Lu Siqing and student musicians, gave a stunning performance that resonated with the full house audience. This momentous concert also marked the first notes of an inter-school friendship between the Bard College and YMSQ. Through this lecture, Shawn unveiled the essence of Bard College for YMSQ students. He began with his own growth narrative to illuminate the “liberal arts education” valued by these colleges, clarifying how they differ from larger universities in the American higher education system. Shawn highlighted Bard’s unique characteristics, faculty, majors, admissions, and more. He explained that Bard’s distinction is cultivating graduates who excel in both music and other disciplines – closely aligned with YMSQ’s “whole person education” philosophy.

Charting Your Path, Continuing to Grow

Moderator Dr. Zhang Ning also engaged Shawn in discussing issues related to students’ development and pursuing further studies. She emphasized that in our age of AI, application essays must avoid pitfalls by embracing tradition – tell your authentic story to let admissions officers hear your unique voice.

Students tuned in with eager questions about Bard's programs, interviews, campus life and more. Shawn not only answered them, but also shared his insights on time management and self-improvement, to students’ benefit.

Shawn said this trip to YMSQ has been a real pleasure. He was deeply impressed by the students’ musical passion and intellectual curiosity. Bard College looks forward to welcoming YMSQ students in the future.