What have been your favourite moments participating in the ACO Academy as soloist so far?

Truly, every rehearsal has been exciting and it’s difficult to choose one moment that surpasses the rest. My favourite moments were when I was facing the orchestra on the first day of rehearsal and I could really interact with every musician. It’s great fun to make eye contact with others in the orchestra and to share in our enjoyment of the music. This collaboration with other passionate musicians is something to miss in solo practise and repertoire. I have also really enjoyed listening to the interactions of the ACO musicians and their suggestions to the orchestra.

Emily SuEmily Su. Photo © Christie Brewster

What have been the most important things you’ve learned?

Throughout this experience, I have learned how to better communicate my ideas on interpretation to the orchestra. I have learned to communicate my intentions for the music both with my movements and also verbally. Furthermore, I have improved my awareness and control of my own tone in relation to the orchestra. In Vivaldi, there are sections where I play with the orchestra and I have learned to shift...