Huskie Spotlight: Andrea LaFranzo, ’24, Orchestral Conducting

What did you want to be when you were growing up?  There was no doubt at the age of 13, after my first experience playing in a symphony orchestra, that I wanted to be a cellist and a conductor.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study? M.M. in Orchestra Conducting. After taking A LOT of time off to raise a family, it was my goal to go back to school and complete a conducting degree.

What is your favorite thing about studying and/or playing music at NIU? I really enjoy being immersed in learning again. It’s inspiring and invigorating.  It’s great to have resources and opportunities available that are hard to come by outside of campus.  I am having a blast working with the NIU Philharmonic and getting coaching and support from the faculty.

How have you connected with other students at NIU? Being a “little” older than my colleagues, the relationships I have formed with the students are very special.  I like to share with them my advice on life and career.  While I have been told I give out “mom” vibes, I hope they think of me more like a “fun aunt” 😉  Regardless, they keep my feeling young!

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why?  All of my professors have been a blessing.  I am grateful for Dr. (Tom) Bough believing in me and bringing me to campus.  I am so thankful for the coaching and mentorship of my conducting professors, Dr. (Wilbur) Lin and Dr. (Silas) Huff.  Dr. (Cheng-Hou) Lee is a fantastic cello instructor who inspired me in so many ways to be better.  Dr. (Elinor) Olin and Dr. (John) Novak’s classes were resourceful and disciplined  – and nobody can teach music history better than Dr. (Brian) Hart.  If anyone can make learning effortless and fun, it’s him.

Why did you choose NIU to study music?: With my professional career and family obligations, NIU was the perfect distance from my home to continue to work and go to school.  I had been waiting for the conducting program to open back up for years, and when it did, I jumped in!

What do you do to relax or recharge? I enjoy immersing myself in my projects, including the Fermi Community Orchestra, which I founded and direct. I like to run and spend time with my family.