Meet Diane Hallberg, GTCYS’ new Camerata Conductor
This season, we are thrilled to welcome Diane Hallberg as our new Camerata conductor! Learn about Diane’s musical journey with GTCYS and beyond.
What inspired you to pursue music as a career?
Music “hooked” me from an early age and I knew that I wanted to pursue it as a lifetime passion. While some musicians dream of performing, I always envisioned myself as a teacher. I guess you could say I am living my dream! I am one of the lucky people in the world who wakes up and can’t wait to go to work.
What are your current roles as a teacher and performer in music?
I have taught at Minnehaha Academy in Minneapolis for the past 27 years. My long tenure there has allowed me to engage in all sorts of music making with students including orchestra, band, jazz band, pep band, pit orchestra and lots of small ensembles. I love the challenge of each group and the way that it motivates me to keep learning about all styles and forms of music.
What is your history working with GTCYS?
This will be my tenth year working with GTCYS. I began as a sectional coach with Camerata and then started working with the other orchestras and subbing for conductors as needed. Camerata has always been one of my favorite groups to work with, so I am thrilled that I get to work with this group as a conductor!
What is your favorite performance you’ve been a part of?
It is hard to pin down a single favorite performance, but it is easy to say that many of my lifetime highlights have been involved with music. One that stands out was performing at the retirement of my college band director. Being able to echo all of the love and inspiration back to him through music was truly moving.
What is your hope for your first year with Camerata?
My hope for the musicians in Camerata is the same hope I have for all of my students–that they will engage with music in a way that allows them to stretch and grow while finding deep meaning and inspiration in the process.
What should our students know about you?
They should know that one of my favorite things about working with students is getting to know them as individuals. I love it when students take the time to introduce themselves to me and chat for a few minutes during down time. Sometimes that is hard with a large group like Camerata, but I’d like to challenge our students to reach out! Creating a positive, caring culture not only makes our work more enjoyable, but I also believe that it makes our music better!
