While playing saxophone at Michigan State University, I have had the privilege to perform in several remarkable ensembles including the Symphony Band, Concert Band, and Spartan Marching Band. My interest in chamber music sparked when I began playing in my saxophone quartet, PULSE, and my reed quintet, The Goat Rodeo. As a student in the College of Music, I was itching to participate in an education abroad suited for classical saxophonists. Luckily, during my final semester of undergrad, I discovered the "Chamber Music Education Abroad Program in Israel."
I spent 11 days traveling through Israel visiting cities such as Tel Aviv, Haifa, Jerusalem, Masada, and the Dead Sea region.
In addition to the workshop, we had three planned performances spread out throughout the country (Haifa, Kibbutz, and Masada). The Kibbutz performance stood out to me because of the incredible people I met during it. The Kibbutz lifestyle and camaraderie is so much different than in the United States; voluntarily living and working together on a noncompetitive basis sharing acts of service for the overall advancement of their community. Observing these differences made the audience connection much deeper, enriching the
I am forever grateful to have participated in the Chamber Music in Israel education abroad program. Combining music and experiential learning together has shifted my desired career path, and opened my mind up to the possibilities of chamber music. Thank you to the Michigan State University College of Music for providing such a life-changing experience for your students. Now, at 23 years of age, I know that little Luke would be geeking out if he knew where music would take him!
Name: Luke Haight
Status: Senior
Major: Music Performance (saxophone)
Hometown: Clarkston, Michigan
Program: Chamber Music in Israel