In fall 2025, Martin Beaver was bestowed with the distinction of Samuel Thomas Violin Chair for the Colburn Conservatory of Music and Music Academy. Here, he reflects on the honor of the new title, his exemplary career, and the connections he builds with students.

December often inspires a sense nostalgia alongside a hope for the new year. This month, we feature a Jumpstart alum who continues to embody the memories and spirit of his time at Colburn combined with his hopeful commitment to guide today’s students toward positive futures through music. 

The countdown to the holidays is ticking away, so there is no better time to start planning your seasonal festivities. The Colburn School invites you to join our end-of-semester events. We offer a variety of performances next month, highlighting the accomplishments of our students. Here’s a quick list of events to kick off the season’s merriments. 

Faculty celebrating anniversaries of 20 years or more posed for a photo at Colburn’s Fall kickoff event for faculty and staff in September. Left to right: Leslie Carothers, Grace Huang, Jerry Kalaf, Carmina Glicklich, Kenton Youngstrom, Margaret Shimizu, Deb Devine, and Karen Lundgren. (Photo: Abby Mahler) 

Elad Navon, an Artist Diploma candidate in the Colburn Conservatory of Music, earned top honors—and made School history—at the 74th ARD Music Competition, a premier international competition. Here, he offers insight into the elite experience.