At first, it was simply a dream.
Then, one acceptance email changed the tune of Issac Jorgensen’s future.
This past summer, the Lamar High School senior was selected for the highly competitive Juilliard School Summer Music Program in New York City. One of just over 100 high school musicians selected from 25 countries, Jorgensen spent three weeks living on the Juilliard campus at Lincoln Center and studying with world-class musicians.
Jorgensen, a member of the Lamar Orchestra, where he plays double bass, had the opportunity to learn from musicians he has long admired, including Tim Cobb, principal double bassist of the New York Philharmonic and Joseph Conyers, principal double bassist of the Philadelphia Orchestra.
He also performed in multiple concerts at Lincoln Center, proudly representing Lamar High School and Arlington ISD Fine Arts.
For Jorgensen, the experience was about more than performing. It was an opportunity to learn alongside talented young musicians from around the world and gain a new perspective on what it means to pursue music at the highest level.
One of his biggest takeaways was realizing that even highly accomplished musicians experience frustration, self-doubt, and difficult moments.
“Every incredibly talented student at Juilliard has played embarrassingly bad, been frustrated with their technique and sound, and been crushed by critiques,” Jorgensen said.
That experience has given him even more confidence to pursue his dream of becoming 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.
Growing Through Arlington ISD Fine Arts
Jorgensen credits Arlington ISD Fine Arts with helping him discover his passion and providing opportunities that allowed him to grow as a musician.
“To be honest, I would have never found this passion of mine if it wasn’t for orchestra being an option in elementary school,” he said.
Lamar Orchestra Director Andrew Walton says Jorgensen ‘s accomplishment is a testament to both his talent and his commitment to his craft.
“He puts in the work required to continually improve and refine his abilities instead of skating by on talent alone,” Walton said.
Lamar High School Principal Lesley Maroney said Isaac’s selection demonstrates that Arlington ISD students can compete and succeed at the highest levels.
“At Lamar, we believe exceptional learning experiences extend beyond the traditional classroom,” Maroney said. “Our fine arts programs help students develop creativity, discipline, confidence, and the courage to pursue excellence.”
As Jorgensen looks toward graduation and a future in music, his Juilliard experience has given him more than memories from an unforgettable summer. It has filled him with confidence to keep dreaming big, working hard, and pursuing his place on the world’s biggest stages.