100 students from 25 countries earn spots in Juilliard summer program

Issac Jorgensen, a senior at Lamar High School, was one of just over 100 high school musicians selected from 25 countries for the Juilliard School Summer Music Program in New York City. The acceptance granted him three weeks of residential study on the Juilliard campus at Lincoln Center.

The program allowed Jorgensen to study under Tim Cobb, principal double bassist of the New York Philharmonic, and Joseph Conyers, principal double bassist of the Philadelphia Orchestra. Jorgensen, who plays double bass in the Lamar Orchestra, performed in multiple concerts at Lincoln Center during the summer session.

The experience provided a direct look at the professional demands of the field. Jorgensen noted that the environment challenged his assumptions about artistic perfection. He observed that even highly accomplished students faced technical struggles and critical feedback.

“Every incredibly talented student at Juilliard has played embarrassingly bad, been frustrated with their technique and sound, and been crushed by critiques,” Jorgensen said.

This exposure has reinforced his intention to pursue music as a profession. He stated that the program increased his confidence in his ability to sustain a career as a professional bassist.

“The experience I had at the Juilliard Summer Music Program has made me more confident than ever to pursue music in my life,” Jorgensen said.

Lamar Orchestra Director Andrew Walton attributed Jorgensen’s success to consistent effort rather than innate ability alone. Walton said Jorgensen “puts in the work required to continually improve and refine his abilities instead of skating by on talent alone.” Lamar High School Principal Lesley Maroney added that the selection demonstrates the capacity of Arlington ISD students to compete at high levels, noting that fine arts programs help students develop discipline and confidence.