Karsyn Vann ’28, a journalism and Spanish double major at Elon University, has balanced deadlines for Elon News Network with her dedication to the clarinet as she prepares to perform with the ensemble this month at Carnegie Hall.
When Karsyn Vann ’28 first learned to play the clarinet in sixth grade, she never thought it would one day lead her to playing at Carnegie Hall.
Now a journalism and Spanish double major at Elon, Vann will join with dozens of fellow Elon University musicians for a Wind Ensemble performance at Carnegie Hall in New York City, a moment that will reflect her musical growth and commitment to balancing two distinct passions.
That performance takes place on March 11, 2026, as part of a showcase ensemble for the 24th Annual New York Wind Band Festival.
Vann, a Phoenix Band Scholar and member of the “Fire of the Carolinas” marching band from Siler City, North Carolina, played in a high school band. With only three clarinets, one musician per part, she was used to being the only one playing a section of a piece. In the Elon wind ensemble, there are multiple clarinets playing per part.
“I learned to be extremely aware of myself and how I sound,” Vann said of her 15-member high school band. “There wasn’t much balance or blend because we were all focused on ourselves. But I’m grateful for that experience because it helped me figure out my specific sound and establish strong practice habits.”
Transitioning from a small band to Elon’s 50-member wind ensemble taught her how to balance and blend in her section.
“The first thing I realized was how big the sound was here,” Vann said. “I was surrounded by people who genuinely cared about music. Our director focuses so much on the little details. In high school, we focused more on the bigger picture. Here, everyone is working in harmony to create something beautiful.”
Combing two passions
Although music is a passion, Vann is not a music major. She studies journalism and Spanish and serves as a copy editor and reporter for the Elon News Network, juggling interviews and deadlines with rehearsals and performances.
She credits Elon’s opportunities for allowing her to continue performing while pursuing a non-music degree.
“I love how Elon gives students who aren’t music majors the opportunity to participate in ensembles,” Vann said. “If they didn’t, I wouldn’t be able to do what I love.”
Her decision to continue playing was inspired by the Phoenix Band Scholarship. After taking a year off from playing the clarinet during her senior year of high school, she realized how much she missed performing.
“I decided to do it because I missed playing so much,” Vann said. “I am really happy I did. I have met so many people who share a passion for music.”
Jonathan Poquette, Elon University’s Fletcher Moore Distinguished Emerging Scholar and director of bands, said he is intentional about welcoming any Elon student, regardless of major, to participate in music ensembles.
“As a faculty, we enjoy working with students who are passionate about making music, even if they are not music majors,” Poquette said. “The fact that so many of our students are non-music majors, and yet we can achieve tremendous experiences like this, is what makes Elon University so special.”
Performing on the big stage
When she first learned the wind ensemble would perform at Carnegie Hall, she described it as “a roller coaster of emotions.”
“At first I was completely shocked, then excited, then nervous,” Vann said. “I felt a sense of pressure, but it was a good kind of pressure, the kind that pushes you to be the best musician you can be.”
Performing at Carnegie Hall represents nearly a decade of dedication and practice.
“It’s hard to believe I’m going to be on the best stage in the world, where so many legends have performed,” Vann said. “All the time and effort I’ve spent practicing since sixth grade has led to this moment.”
Although she has not visited Carnegie Hall before, she is eager to step on the stage alongside her bandmates.
“I think I will feel everything, excitement, nerves and adrenaline,” Vann said. “But we’ve practiced so hard, and I know we are ready. I’m just going to take it all in.”
As she prepares for the trip to New York City, Vann is looking forward to sharing the experience with her band family.
“This will definitely be a core memory for me,” Vann said. “Each member of the ensemble is vital. It wouldn’t be the same without every single one of them, and Dr. Poquette has worked so hard to make this a reality.”
Beyond Elon, Vann said she hopes to one day report and write for a publication and tell stories she is passionate about. She also hopes to pursue translation work with her education in Spanish.
“Music will always be a part of my life and is another way to express myself,” she said. “I can’t imagine not doing music. Wherever I end up, I hope to join a community band or orchestra to keep refining my skills.”