John Murray likes the energy at Juilliard

Eighteen-year-old bassist John Murray has won multiple awards over the last few years, including “Outstanding Soloist” at both the Monterey Next Generation and Essentially Ellington competitions in 2018 and 2019. He had his pick of where he’d be attending music school in the fall, having auditioned at The New School, Berklee, Michigan State, Manhattan School of Music, and The Juilliard School. “I went to the city of New York with an open mind,” says Murray. “Every school has their own energy, but my top choices ended up being Juilliard and the Manhattan School of Music. I would have been happy to attend either one.”

Since he was offered a full tuition scholarship at all three of his top choices, Murray ended up choosing The Julliard School. “It’s an incredibly prestigious school, and I’m thrilled to have been accepted and to have the opportunity to attend.” Murray’s talents have enabled him to spend the last few years as the “first-call” bassist for local jazz hero Gilbert Castellanos. “He’s an amazing musician, and I feel so blessed to play with him every week. It’s been the best learning experience I could have imagined.”

Murray says he’ll miss much about San Diego. “So many things, I really love this city. It’s such a beautiful place. I’ve received so much love and support from the community, it’s been overwhelming. But I’m also looking forward to starting a new chapter and hopefully integrating myself into a new community.”

Not that he doesn’t have apprehensions about the big move. “Oh definitely. I’m probably nervous about everything. It’s a big city, it will be a big change. I think I’m nervous in general to uproot my entire life and move across country. But I think that also comes with a lot of excitement and anticipation.”