Meet Our Team: Kirsten

Q: How is your name pronounced?
"[Kur-Stin]... I think people get various versions of my name because of the actress Kirsten Dunst. Her name isn't pronounced like mine."

Q: What is your favorite genre to play?
"I love playing impressionist music. The sounds blend together making it sound like a water color painting. It's not technical like classical, so I can feel a lot of emotions with this type of music."

Q: What is your favorite piece to listen to?
"I love listening to Addison Agen's rendition of Humble and Kind. It's a good reminder that no matter what is going on, I can always go back to where I started."

Q: What inspires you to continue to pursue music?
"The people that I have played for are the people that inspire me. I don't play music for myself. I do it for other people, and if I can bring a smile upon someone's face with my music, it makes it all worth it." 

Q: What is your goal in life and what drives that for you?
"My goal in life is to be able to help kids achieve success through their passion. I have been blessed by numerous people who believed in me, and they have given me opportunities I would only dream of. I want that for others."

Q: What was your ACDA experience like?
"ACDA fall conference was so much more than I expected. It was because of Holly that I was able to have this opportunity and it has been my favorite experience. At first, it was a little intimidating as the ACDA conference is a huge event, however, the directors were so kind and it was amazing working with middle school girls that were enthusiastic to learn. It made my job more enjoyable!

Q: Tell me about your first experience with Lowcountry Pianist & Company.
"We got in touch through my piano teacher at the time. Shortly after I met the owner, Holly, and she contacted me for a last minute performance which then became my first time playing for her company. I liked that it wasn't planned because she got to see me sightread and do what I love without feeling the pressure many people feel in a traditional interview. Most people have to prove themselves on a piece of paper, but I got to do it through my playing. 

Q: What are your credentials and past experiences?
"I have been playing piano for 15 years. When I was 15, I was interviewed by a theatre director and she told me to quit my job and work for her. She then offered me a scholarship to go to this 3 week music program in New York. While there, I got to work with some of the greatest, like Stephen Flaherty. Getting to see them teach what they are known for was unforgettable. 

I also studied through the Royal Conservatory of Music and I am currently getting a degree in Piano Performance at Charleston Southern University. While my credentials are primarily based on experience, they have changed me for the better." 

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To check on Kirsten's availability for your special event, reach out to us!