Pleasant Valley sophomore, Alyssa Paulson, has enjoyed music her entire life. It was this love that helped her decide to start playing the bass violin. Paulson said, “I got interested in the bass because I really liked jazz music and wanted to be able to play it when I was older.” Since then, she has grown to become a very important member of the orchestra at Pleasant Valley.

How long have you been playing the bass violin?

I’ve been playing the bass for 6 years.

What is your favorite part about being in orchestra?

I like playing music in orchestra, but I started really loving it because of the bass section. It’s just such a fun group of people.

What is your favorite memory with orchestra?

My favorite memory would have to be when we did a Bass Christmas group. It was interesting to see all the different bass players from all the different levels.

What are you most proud of with your career in orchestra so far?

I would say something I’m really proud of was just starting. It was a little scary being the only girl at first, but now there are five of us. It’s a lot of fun to see more girls playing the bass.

What is your favorite song that you have played?

This year in the Youth Symphony Orchestra, we played “Jupiter,” and it was a magical song. The middle was really slow and pretty.

Do you have any advice for other musicians?

My advice for other musicians would be to not take yourself too seriously. Some musicians practice, practice, and practice to get everything just right. Music really is something that is felt, and if you mess up and come in at the wrong time, it will still be okay.