Willow Carter

Pronouns Used: She/Her/Hers

Hometown: Fryeburg, Maine

Principal Instrument: Voice

Majors: Songwriting

Minors: Private Studio Teaching

Describe your favorite Berklee experience so far.

It is hard to name just one favorite Berklee experience. I loved having the opportunity to be a part of an ensemble and collaborating with my fellow students in different genres of music. I learned to love the experience of going off campus, even though at first it was out of my comfort zone. I have met some of my closest friends doing all of these things, and without Berklee, I wouldn't have gotten the chance to do all of this.

When you think about your favorite class so far; what is one example of why you enjoyed it?

My favorite class so far definitely has to have been my MAT (Music Application and Theory). It was the perfect example of how the professor can really make the class. My professor was very good at keeping everybody accountable for their work, while still keeping a fun and friendly academic environment. In the last class he was knitting and talking about tarot cards, and I felt like I had not only learned a great deal from him, but also gained a great professional relationship as well.

What is your favorite part about studying and living in Boston? 

How nature is built into the city. The Public Gardens and the Boston Commons became a sort of safe space for me and my friends during finals, and we would go there whenever we felt stressed or overwhelmed. Being from Maine, I just absolutely love how even in the bustle of the city, there's always a serene space to escape to.

What is one piece of advice you would give to someone applying to Berklee College of Music or Boston Conservatory at Berklee?

Don't convince yourself everyone has it all together, because nobody truly does. Everybody is just trying their best, and so long as you're doing your best, there is no comparison to be made.

Where is your favorite place on campus?

The 270 lounges! A lot of the people on my floor (and even from different floors/buildings) would hang out there and talk about anything and everything. It felt like such a safe space for me and all of my peers.

Why did you choose Berklee?

I chose Berklee because I knew it would challenge me to be the best musician I could possibly be. Between all of the theory classes that help you build your foundation and the major classes that relate directly to your area of concentration, it's one of the best curriculums out there.

What are your plans for after graduation?

I hope to work as a part-time vocal teacher, and continue to build a following for my original music.

What have you enjoyed most about the live shows you’ve been involved in at Berklee?

The continuous support I've received from my peers, and the gentle nudges they've given me to try new things in relation to my performances. I used to stick to ballads, but in my ensembles I tried some new genres and ended up loving it!

Where do you hope to perform this coming year?

The Lilypad in Cambridge for sure.

Your social media channel/web URL?

Website: https://bluewillowtreestudio.com/ 

Youtube: youtube.com/willowcarter

Instagram: willow__carter (two underscores) and Facebook: @willowcartermusic