Melinda Wagner was not taken seriously as a musician until she attended graduate school for music. With a Pulitzer Prize now under her belt, she can put those fears to rest.
A Philadelphia native, Wagner was quick to mention the important relationships she formed with mentors and professors at Penn. During her years as a graduate student, she studied under Music professors Richard Wernick, George Crumb, Shulamit Ran and Jay Reise.
Although Wagner, who received her graduate degree from Penn in 1986, has established herself as a premier composer, she admits it was not easy.
"I just started writing music," she said, describing her early years as a composer. "I didn't know anybody. I didn't have a job."
This, however, did not stop her from following her aspirations, she said Thursday at a Fox Leadership event.
Wagner received the 1999 Pulitzer Prize in Music for her "Concerto for Flute, Strings and Percussion." Her music has been performed by ensembles ranging from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra to the American Composers Orchestra.
Yet despite all her success, Wagner discussed the superficiality of the awards. She said she considers prizes somewhat cosmetic, although they help to improve one's credibility.
Wagner also described her life at home and the challenges of raising children. She has had to juggle her family responsibilities with her career goals. Her husband is a percussionist and has performed some of her works.
Several times throughout her talk, Wagner encouraged students to trust their instincts in life. She also stressed the importance of maintaining relationships with professors and mentors.
Many students found inspiration in Wagner's words.
College junior Jason Oberman pointed out that Wagner really followed her heart and pursued an interesting path.
Wharton junior Paul Bonanno stated that while he himself did not plan on becoming a musician, he was able to "glean a lot from her talk" that was applicable to any career.
Those who attended the talk enjoyed dinner with Wagner at the White Dog Cafe afterwards.
