Collegiate voice students can only dream about the opportunity—someday—to be featured as a soloist with a major symphony orchestra. For Blair junior Vyjayanthi “Viji” Burma, a music education major, that dream became a reality in a whirlwind fashion last month.
When the Nashville Symphony Orchestra had a last-minute need for a soloist to perform with guest conductor Eímear Noone for its popular Gamesymphonic video game-themed program, Burma was presented with the incredible (and daunting) opportunity to fill the role with just four days’ notice and one full orchestra rehearsal.
Burma jumped at the chance and her stirring performance received glowing marks from the packed Schermerhorn Symphony Center audience and the NSO staff.
We had the chance to speak with Viji Burma to learn more about the story behind her exciting symphony debut.
First, congratulations on pulling off this performance with such short notice.
Thank you, it was an incredible experience!
The concert was on a Friday, when did you receive the invitation to perform?
I was notified of the opportunity and given the music on Monday afternoon, which was a pretty tight turnaround for a Friday morning rehearsal and Friday night show!
Did you have any reservations, given the short window to prepare?
I was so excited by the opportunity and immediately knew I wanted to say “yes” to it.
Were you familiar with any of the pieces?
I had sung one of the movements before (Korobeiniki) as part of the choir last year, but I didn’t know the soloist part very well.
What was it like as you went into the rehearsal on Friday?
I was definitely nervous. This was the first time I had ever done something of this scale, and my heart was absolutely pounding standing backstage waiting to go on for my pieces. I was just hoping and praying I sang everything correctly and at the right time!
How were your interactions with guest conductor Eímear Noone?
I absolutely loved working with Eímear! From the very beginning, she brought such incredible enthusiasm and energy to the music that it was impossible not to feel inspired. What stood out to me most was how genuinely supportive she was. I felt her encouragement the moment I first walked on stage Friday afternoon, and that sense of reassurance allowed me to fully trust the process and immerse myself in the music.
How did you approach your preparation on such short notice?
I can confidently say there is no possible way I could have learned the music as fast as I had to without the incredible support of my professors here at Blair. From the beginning of the process right up until my last bow, Dr. Biddlecombe, Professor Burton, Professor Buchanan, and the whole voice department were so encouraging and helpful, making sure I was prepared for any possible scenario.
What are your takeaways now that you look back and realize “you did it!”
The whole experience onstage was so surreal and exhilarating – I was just excited to be part of it! Looking back, I just feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude, both for my professors and mentors at Blair, as well as everyone at the Nashville Symphony and the Gamesymphonic team. I went into this experience with nerves and excitement, but once I stepped on stage, I realized just how much joy there is in sharing music with such an incredible orchestra and audience.