Emma Lund

Emma Lund began to play violin 13 years ago, and hasn’t lost her love for music since.  While continuing to work hard on her violin skills, Lund picked up piano along the way. She fell in love with the two instruments, and her life would not be the same without music and the time she puts into perfecting her instrumental talent.

Because of Lund’s hard work and dedication, she has been given the Sterling Scholar award in music at Highland.

Lund grew up in a musical home where her parents encouraged her and her older siblings to take music lessons.

“Failure was never an option to Emma,” Her parents, Van and Elizabeth Lund said.  “Everyone in the family does music, so she accepted it as something she wanted to do and be successful at.”

When talking with Lund, one can observe the passion and love she has for music. Her enthusiasm for the talent seems to have helped her learn and become better every day at what she does.

Lund’s favorite aspect of playing instruments is working with other musicians around her to create something bigger.

“I really like to do ensemble work, like playing in orchestras, symphonies, or quartets because it’s really fun to work with other people, and create music together. “ Lund said.

For Lund, playing her two instruments is more than just a hobby. She uses the piano and violin as an outlet, and a way to get rid of stress.

“It’s just a part of my life now, I can’t see myself without it. Music has always been a way to help me relax when things are really stressful, sometimes it’s the main cause of my stress, but it’s a great way to help me express myself and connect with other people,” Lund said.

Lund has had music in her life since a very young age, and because of that it comes somewhat naturally to her, but she encourages those who do not have music come as easily to them to keep working at it.

“If you don’t start [music] young, you can still grow to any level in a really short amount of time if you practice hard, don’t give up, and really make the music your own.” Lund said.

Lund’s motivation and perseverance that she has put forth towards practicing music seems to have carried over to other departments of her life.

Along with music, Lund enjoys visual art. She loves to paint and work with pastels.  One can observe that Lund has an ear and eye for the beauty around her, and uses that gift to excel in life to the best of her abilities.

Lund’s parents realize what a large accomplishment receiving the Sterling Scholar award is, and say that Emma’s diligence, hard work, goal setting and good time management skills is what has helped Lund succeed.

“I admire her empathy and caring attitude towards others, and her outgoing and inclusive nature. Emma is a wonderful caring friend to many and is a multidimensional person successful in many different fields. She is talented academically, artistically, and socially as well as being a fine musician,” Lund’s parents said.

Lund has been given a talent, and has expanded it through the years with much practice and work. The Sterling Scholar award is a great refection of Lund’s amazing gift.