Alex and his teacher, Stan Smith

Alex, a Karns Middle Schooler, is getting ready for his third Joy of Music School recital on May 10. Fortunately, nerves that would get the best of most of us don’t have much impact on the mature-beyond- his-years violinist. Perhaps it’s the DNA inherited from his saxophonist dad or former Knoxville Symphony Orchestra horn-playing grandfather. Or maybe it’s because as a member of his school’s orchestra band, as well as the Knoxville Symphony Youth Orchestra, he is no stranger to public performances.

Q. Do you get nervous before performing?

A. Performances have never really bothered me, and if a bit of nerves appear I just try to take a deep breath and go on.

Q. This will be your third JoMS recital. How is it different from the first?

A. Well, I am over being nervous about being in a strange place now, and Mr. Stan [Smith, instructor] has taught me so that I know better what he expects.

Q. What will you play this year?

A. I am planning to play Concerto in A Minor, 1st Movement by Vivaldi, but I may play Concerto No.2 in G Major, 3rd Movement By Seitz.

Q. What kind of music do you listen to?

A. I have always liked the Beatles, but I have listened mainly to classical music for the past two years.

Q. Who is your favorite musician?

A. Itzhak Perlman

Q. What stage would you most like to perform on?

A. Carnegie Hall

Q. Are there any other instruments you are interested in learning?

A. I would also like to learn the cello.

Alex and his teacher, Stan Smith

Q. Do you see music in your life as an adult?

A. I would certainly enjoy playing, but I am also interested in teaching and possibly even violin building and repair.

Q. What do you like best about the Joy of Music School?

A. The Joy of Music School has provided me the opportunity to receive high caliber music lessons from a highly trained instructor, and I also know that it has helped to open many doors such as The Knoxville Symphony Youth Orchestra.