Jessica Robinson Stinson (Bachelor of Music, violin performance) is professor of violin at Georgia State University. She also serves as acting assistant principal second violin with the Atlanta Opera Orchestra, and is violinist and founding member of the Mosaic Quartet. We recently caught up with Jessica to ask her some questions about her time at the USC School of Music.
Why did you choose the USC School of Music?
When I visited USC for the first time, I was drawn to the fact that the School of Music seemed very close-knit and supportive of its students. It felt like a true sense of community within a larger university. I could also tell that the faculty and staff were genuinely invested in the emerging careers of the students.
What ensemble(s) did you perform with while at USC?
What person, course or experience was most influential for you while at the School of Music? How?
Dr. Terwilliger, my applied violin professor, helped me to find my voice as an artist during our time together. Studying with him taught me how to listen and give constructive feedback while prioritizing respect and compassion, and I try to emulate that in my own studio.
How has your education at the USC School of Music helped you in your life and career?
I was fortunate to have many performance opportunities both in and outside the School of Music while I was a student. These opportunities taught me so much about how to be a professional musician - how to prepare/practice, how to rehearse, and how to perform at a high standard.
What is one of your favorite memories, classes, professors or activities while attending the School of Music?
My fondest memory, of course, is meeting my husband (McKinley Stinson, '07, Percussion) while we were both students in the School of Music. We got married in 2009, so we'll celebrate 15 years of marriage in May.
What advice would you give current students or recent graduates pursuing a music performance or music education career?
Stay curious and don't fall into the trap of how you think things "should" be. Follow through on your commitments and think about the life you want to create, not just the job.
What is one of your proudest professional or personal accomplishments that occurred after graduating from the School of Music in which your education played a role?
Returning to the School of Music in 2021 and giving a masterclass to the violin students felt like such a full circle moment. I learned so much during my time at USC and it meant a lot to be able to give back to current students.
Please share any upcoming performances you have.
February 18 and 24, 2024 - Mosaic Quartet presents "Source Code" - A Celebration of Black History Through Chamber Music; March 2-10, 2024 - The Atlanta Opera, Benjamin Britten's A Midsummer Night's Dream
Please share any recent career changes, accomplishments, awards or major life events.
I was the recipient of the first Nathan Kahn Award from ROPA (Regional Orchestra Players' Association) in July 2023 - the award celebrates ROPA members who champion diversity, equity, and inclusion through the arts in their communities.
You can follow Jessica on Instagram @jstinsonviolin
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