World-Renowned Violist Matthew Lipman Inspires Parker Junior High Orchestra Students

FLOSSMOOR, IL — Orchestra students at Parker Junior High School in Flossmoor School District 161 had a special opportunity to learn from one of today’s accomplished orchestral musicians when world-renowned violist Matthew Lipman visited the school to perform, share his expertise and connect with young musicians.

During his visit, Lipman performed multiple selections for students, offering them an up-close experience with the artistry and expressive possibilities of the viola. The students also had the opportunity to perform for Lipman, who provided feedback and insights to help them continue developing their musical skills.

The experience went beyond the music. During a question-and-answer session, students asked Lipman about his professional career, including how often he practices and the places he has traveled to perform. His visit gave students a glimpse into the dedication, discipline and opportunities that come with pursuing music at the highest level.

For Calhoon, the visit also represented a meaningful connection to the past. He was Lipman’s beginning orchestra teacher in 2001 while teaching in Crete-Monee School District. Although Calhoon is quick to credit Lipman’s own talent and dedication for his success, welcoming his former student back to work with young musicians offered a full-circle moment.

“I love that our students had the chance to meet Matt and hear him play. While social media makes it easy to watch world-class artists perform, being in the same room with an artist and having the chance to interact with them is a rare treat. Just as importantly, the experience helped our students connect with him as a person. Before today, they knew him as a world-renowned violinist. Now they know that he got his start on the viola the same way that they did: in my orchestra room down here in the south suburbs.” Rob Calhoon, Flossmoor School District 161 Orchestra Director.

Lipman was visiting the area to perform as the featured soloist with the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra during its season-opening concert. His visit to Parker Junior High was made possible through Supporters of the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, who sponsored the school experience.

For Parker Junior High orchestra students, the visit offered more than a chance to hear a world-class musician perform. It gave them an opportunity to learn directly from a professional artist, receive feedback on their own playing, and see how dedication to their craft can open doors to experiences around the world.

"It is especially meaningful to the orchestra students to see where their orchestra experience could take them," said Parker Junior High Orchestra Director Mr. AJ Diller. "Sometimes, we get caught up in the day-to-day activities. It’s important to see the enjoyment of music, even though it takes a lot of work to get there."