Emma Gierum-Arellano

Biography

School: Home School
ASO Instructor: Carolyn Hancock  
Other Musical Affiliations: FoCo Suzuki String Quartet, Franklin Pond Chamber Music, Atlanta Chamber Symphony, Atlanta Chamber Orchestra, Madison Morgan Youth Competition  

Emma Gierum-Arellano is an 11-year-old home-schooled student currently in the 7th grade. She began her violin studies at age five with her mother, Tamara Gierum, using the Suzuki method. Her musical talent quickly became apparent, and she furthered her training with Nashville Symphony violinist Ashley Odom. 

By age nine, Emma had already been invited to perform with the Johns Creek Symphony as the Vivaldi Soloist for their Music in the Schools Program. Shortly thereafter, she became one of the youngest fellows accepted into the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Talent Development Program. 

Emma has performed with a variety of professional and educational musical groups, including the FoCo Suzuki String Quartet, Franklin Pond Chamber Music, Atlanta Chamber Symphony, Atlanta Chamber Orchestra, and Madison Morgan Youth Competition. She has also been featured in formal events at the historic Peachtree Christian Church. 

Now studying under the tutelage of ASO’s first violinist Carolyn Hancock, Emma has performed a range of advanced concertos and chamber music and has been invited to several prestigious events. One of her favorite memories with the Talent Development Program is performing a famous Mozart violin concerto and cadenza at the TDP's 30th Anniversary celebration and performing for Mrs. Azira Hill’s 99th birthday. 

Outside of music, Emma enjoys performing recitals at assisted living homes, where she has met many remarkable seniors, including a retired classical pianist and music director who was 102 years old. In her free time, she likes reading, crocheting, swimming, roller skating, traveling, spending time with her family, and baking.