Aisling O'Sullivan Goel appointed Third Horn of the Sioux City Symphony Orchestra
Congratulations to University of Minnesota School of Music alumna Aisling O’Sullivan Goel, who won the third horn audition with the Sioux City Symphony in Sioux City, Iowa. The symphony is a major regional symphony serving Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota.
"In her years at the University, Aisling's dedication and determination were evident from day one.” Professor and Minnesota Orchestra horn member Ellen Dinwiddie Smith remarked. “She consistently went above and beyond, demonstrating reliability and a strong work ethic. It was truly rewarding to mentor her and witness her incredible progress. I am thrilled to see her continued growth and success, and the entire horn studio celebrates her achievements with pride."
We reached out to Aisling to discuss her experience at the University of Minnesota and how it prepared her for this appointment.
How did the education at the School of Music help prepare you for your career in music?
I really appreciated the variety of musical opportunities that I had at the School of Music. At that time the horn studio was small so I had the opportunity to play in many different ensembles (orchestra, wind ensemble, opera orchestra, conducting labs, chamber music). Since graduating, I’ve had a variety of musical opportunities, and I’m grateful that I gained all of that experience in graduate school so that I can feel comfortable playing in different ensembles with different musicians.
What was your favorite part of studying at UMN? Do you have a fun story to share?
Many favorite memories come to mind! I performed as the horn soloist for the Britten Serenade, and the orchestra had a side by side with the Minnesota Orchestra on Shostakovich 7. I also had the opportunity to play principal on Strauss’ Till Eulenspiegel, which is a big piece for the horns!
Is there anyone from the School of Music you wish to thank in particular?
I had the privilege to be mentored by both Ellen Dinwiddie Smith and Caroline Lemen. Both faculty members were terrific and were complementary in their approaches. I primarily studied with Ellen Dinwiddie Smith, and she is the reason that I chose to pursue my Master's degree at the U. I actually studied with her in high school and came back home to Minnesota after undergrad to study with her again because she really understands my playing. She knows exactly how to fix my technical issues and is always encouraging when I feel stuck. I still go play for her when I have an audition or big performance coming up. Thank you, Ellen and Caroline!
Aisling O'Sullivan resides in the Twin Cities and has performed with many local ensembles including as third horn with the Bloomington Symphony and subbing with the Minnesota Orchestra. Aisling holds degrees from the University of Minnesota (Master's) and the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (Bachelor's). She is currently the horn instructor at Macalester College. In addition to playing horn, Aisling enjoys rowing, gardening, and spending time with her husband, Ankit, and two miniature dachshunds, Fergus and Yogi.
