Moorman: From Carnegie Hall to Round Top

Festival Hill Spotlight: Isaac Moorman

Cellist Isaac Moorman is not one to back down from a challenge. From solos at Carnegie Hall to auditions for the principal cellist position in the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, Moorman has worked hard to make it to the top in the music performance industry.

Having grown up with a father and brother who both played string instruments, Moorman has learned how to branch out and find his own musical voice. In fact, it was them who suggested that he play an instrument different from them, the violin and the viola respectively.

“We actually play together for weddings or events sometimes. And like if there’s an orchestra that we’re all playing in, we’ll play it together and work it out,” said Moorman. “It’s a fun time. It’s really good to play with them.”

When it comes to orchestras and ensembles that Moorman does on his own, he performs with the Orlando Philharmonic as an assistant principal cellist, as previously mentioned, as well as the Space Coast Symphony and the Riverside Chamber Orchestra. He has also performed as a soloist with the Melbourne Municipal Band and the Central Florida Winds.

In undergraduate studies, Moorman double majored in both cello and piano performance, completing the degree plan in three short years with high honors. Now, he attends the Eastman School of Music, studying cello performance and serving as a teaching assistant. For ensembles, college admissions and other experiences that he’s had, Moorman explained that it’s been a continuous stream of practice that has helped him get through every round of auditions.

“For some auditions, if it’s a bigger audition, you have to spend at least half a year or more [practicing], so it’s definitely a long process, but you know, you just need to warm yourself up into it,” said Moorman. “In the last few weeks before it happens, you should already feel like you’re ready to play any time.”

Now that Moorman has a principal position at Orlando, he spends his time split between Eastman in New York, Orlando and other ensembles or festivals he finds himself at in-between. But, he’ll never get tired of it, because he’s finally making those dreams of his become a reality.

“It’s just been a busy time going back and forth between Orlando and Eastman. But you know, I wouldn’t have it any other way,” said Moorman. “I love playing in orchestra and I love going to school.”