Emmett Drake ('08)

Bachelor of Music, Composition
Director of Suzuki Orchestras - Hartt Community Division

Why I Chose Hartt

What initially attracted me to The Hartt School was its excellent reputation and programs. What got me to choose Hartt over anywhere else, however, were the people. At so many high caliber music schools you see malicious competiveness between students which, in my opinion, hinders your education. Hartt isn¹t like that. The students here genuinely want each other to succeed, and it¹s clear to them that success comes with hard work on their part, not the failure of others. The faculty are accessible and approachable, and really take an interest in their students. The classes are small and interactive, and the ensembles are fantastic. Hartt is a truly unique place, a real opportunity for any musician, actor, dancer, or teacher.

More about Emmett

Hailing from Long Island, New York, Emmett Drake completed his Bachelor of Music degree in composition at The Hartt School, University of Hartford in West Hartford, Connecticut.  As a composer, he has written a variety of works, including music for youth and advanced ensembles.  Additionally, he has collaborated with the Performance 20/20 Chamber Music program of The Hartt School, and has served as composer-in-residence for the Northeast New Music Collective and "Kammermusik," a youth chamber orchestra in Garden City, New York.  He is the director of "A Cafella", a men's choir at Hall High School in West Hartford and currently serves as music director for The Hartt School Community Division's five Suzuki orchestras.  In addition to his achievements as a composer, Emmett is an accomplished violinist, pianist and conductor.  Currently, he studies violin with Mickey Reisman and conducting with Maestro Christopher Zimmerman, both Hartt School faculty.  Emmett frequently serves as music director and conductor for area musicals.

- Noah Glynn