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50 Years of Alumni: Katie Berg

College(s)/University attended:
Carleton College, UW-Madison

What years were you in GTCYS?
1992-1999. I graduated from high school in 1999.

What skills or lessons did you learn in GTCYS that you still use today?
GTCYS is where I truly discovered how much I love playing music, and most importantly, playing in a collaborative environment with other musicians. That love of collaborative music-making has stuck with me my entire life, and has guided me even in my professional life, as I worked at The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra for 14 years.

Why do you think GTCYS is important for students now?
GTCYS was such a wonderful place for me to spend time with students who were as interested in music as I was. It can be hard to find that in schools, so it’s even more important that we help support those kinds of opportunities for students.

How does music still play a part in your life?
I no longer play the cello, but I continue to play the piano. Playing music and singing is an important part of how my family celebrates being together. I remain an active concert-goer!

What is your favorite composer or piece of music?
My absolute favorite is Dvořák’s American Quartet.

What’s a fun fact about yourself?
I have the same birthday as my brother and sister, but in three different years.

What do you hope to see from GTCYS in the next 50 years?
I hope GTCYS will be as much of a home for those who go on to be professional musicians as those who have other academic and life goals, but are equally passionate about making music together.

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