Cellist Tommy Mesa’s love of music began with his interest in playing drums. Selecting orchestra class in middle school, he learned violin before picking up the cello. Performing works by Ernesto Lecuona and Debussy on his 1767 cello made by Nicolò Gagliano, Mesa celebrates both his Cuban and French heritage. Now a faculty member at the Manhattan School of Music, the musician plans to build his own studio.
About Taking Note:
Great Performances: Taking Note is a digital series spotlighting rising instrumental artists who have received Career Grant Awards from the Avery Fisher Artist Program. Each year, the Program awards up to five grants of $25,000 to instrumentalists and chamber ensembles in support of their emerging careers.
This season features the Viano Quartet, violinist Joshua Brown, and cellist Tommy Mesa. The series features both performances and interviews with awardees sharing past and present inspirations, training and goals.