Congratulations are due for the National Symphony’s new Associate Principal violist, Dana Kelley. Brava!
Four others joined her in the finals- Brian Hong, Ashley Vandiver, and Johanna Nowik. Current NSO member Rebecca Epperson was also auto-advanced straight to finals.
Correct me if you’ve heard otherwise- I believe both Brian & Ashley started in prelims. Not sure about Johanna. 18 violists were in the semifinals and this audition was 100% behind a screen in every round.
So happy to report this was NOT a no hire!
I believe Dana also started in prelims - congrats to NSO for landing an incredible new AP!