Rachel Grubb

Rachel Grubb, a conductor and violinist, is currently working towards a Bachelor’s degree in Conducting Performance, a major she created through the College of Arts and Sciences College Scholars program. In addition to playing the violin, Rachel has had the opportunity to guest conduct numerous orchestras, including the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra, the Astoria Symphony in New York City, the Oak Ridge Civic Orchestra in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, and the University of Tennessee's own Chamber Orchestra.

The Grubb family boasts a rich history with the University of Tennessee. Her mother, who is also a UT faculty member, as well as her father, aunt, uncle, and two grandparents all graduated from the university. Rachel did not even consider applying to any other institution, and her decision has given her the opportunity to explore many options in the realm of musical performance.

Rachel's principal teachers are James Fellenbaum and Kirk Trevor; both have influenced her musical and personal development. The "highlight" of her week is her private conducting lessons, which Rachel enjoys because "conducting great music is my passion, and my professor is inspiring." She adds, "My conducting professor, Mr. Fellenbaum, is not only my teacher but also a mentor in music and life in general."

Rachel conducts a Brahms Symphony with the Bohuslav Martinu Philharmonic Orchestra in Kromeriz, Czech Republic.

In the summer of 2007, Rachel attended the 17th International Workshop for Conductors in Kromeriz, Czech Republic. During the school year and when not at the podium, she performs with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, whose membership includes both of her talented parents. She also volunteers to teach at the Joy of Music School where music lessons and instruments are provided to at-risk children. In her free time, Rachel enjoys taking long hikes with her dogs. Most recently, Rachel has accepted a position as Orchestra Director and Assistant Conductor of the Cokesbury United Methodist Church in Knoxville. She has also traveled to Indianapolis to work with the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra and her conducting mentor, Kirk Trevor, on a program that includes Prokoffiev's Peter and the Wolf.

Students at The Joy of Music School practice the violin.
Photo used by permission of The Joy of Music School

After completing her undergraduate education, Rachel hopes to earn masters and post-graduate degrees in conducting, and then go on to audition for jobs as Assistant Conductor for a professional symphony orchestra. Eventually, she aspires to have a career as a Music Director of a regional symphony orchestra and opera company.

Learn more about Rachel's interests by visiting the links below.

• College Scholars
• The Joy of Music School
• Knoxville Symphony Orchestra