Chloe Kranz
Degree: BM, performance, cello concentration 
College: Boyer College of Music and Dance 
Hometown: Harvard, Massachusetts 

Why I chose Temple: When I was looking into college I wasn’t fully committed to pursuing music because there is the question of whether it’s the most solid career path. I also applied to be a chemistry major because I enjoy that. But I ended up pursuing cello because I would have regretted it if I didn't at least try and take that chance. So, I chose Temple because it has so many different programs and I had the option to do other things if I wanted to venture off this path. I came to Temple thinking, I’m not 100% sure if I’m going to keep this major, but the longer I’ve been here the more I’ve been really enjoying it and I’m happy I made this decision. I’ve enjoyed playing the cello and getting better at it. I’m glad I took that risk. I think it’s paying off.

Transformative Temple moment: Playing Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 at the Kimmel Center with The Temple University Symphony Orchestra was a really moving experience. It felt like this big moment. But mostly I’ve transformed through slow growth. When I came here, I was alright at cello, but after four years of weekly private lessons with Professor Jeffrey Solow my technique has reached another level. I feel like I am playing with so much less tension now and that has allowed me to tackle harder pieces and perform at a new level. The biggest thing that’s led me to grow as a cellist is a willingness to learn. From day one I was like, ‘I am here to get better.’ Anything teachers have to say to me, I’ll consider it and be open to it. I think that openness to learn and grow has served me well.

What’s next: I’m going to the Royal Academy of Music in London to pursue a master of arts in cello. After that, I think I’ll try to get into an orchestra.