Zoe Heim Embarks on a Year of Artistic Maturation and Performance Distinction
Over the summer of 2024, Zoe participated in the BUTI Horn Workshop and performed in the Young Artists Orchestra, where she served as principal horn in Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 5—a moment she regards as among the most memorable of her career. She also held principal horn in Debussy’s Prélude à l’après-midi d’un faune and was third horn in Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 7. During this time, she connected with fellow Northwestern freshmen, including horn player Tristan, who has become a cherished friend.
At Northwestern, Zoe commenced advanced studies under Professors Gail Williams and Jon Boen, focusing her academic path solely on performance—a shift from her previous dual track with music education. This decision has allowed her to delve deeply into technical refinement and musical expression, even amidst the challenges of such a concentrated focus.
Her performance repertoire expanded across a wide array of ensembles, including the Symphonic Band, Chamber Orchestra, Baroque Ensemble, Brass Ensemble, Woodwind Quintet, and Horn Septet, among others. She’s particularly grateful for the supportive and inspiring studio environment, where collaboration and camaraderie have flourished.
A standout moment occurred at Professor Williams’s retirement concert, where Zoe joined alumni in a massive horn choir. The collective resonance of that performance reaffirmed her passion for the horn. While she bids farewell to Professor Williams with heartfelt appreciation, she eagerly anticipates working with the incoming Professor Adam Unsworth in the upcoming academic year.
This summer, Zoe continued her artistic growth at the Ozark Music Festival at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, performing Strauss’s Don Juan and Mahler’s Symphony No. 1. Under the mentorship of Professor Stacie Mickens from the University of North Texas, she gained invaluable insights and experience, despite the brevity of the two-week session.
We applaud Zoe for her outstanding accomplishments and are excited to follow her continued journey as she reaches new heights in her musical career!