Whether he is performing across Europe or at a CHS music concert, senior Daniel Moltke strums his violin, transferring his feelings into his music to create a sensational piece of art.  As he pours his heart into the piece, Moltke’s passion for music grows.

“Music is all about being able to express myself in ways that words cannot,” said Moltke.

Although Moltke joined his school orchestra in fifth grade, in middle school he began practicing the violin more seriously.  Using music as an outlet, Moltke blocked out the stress of middle school and instead focused on his musical ability.  With the assistance of a private music instructor, Moltke’s skill increased, allowing him to move up from the last chair to the third chair within a year.

“I was bullied often and only had a few friends during middle school,” said Moltke.  “[Music] helped me through this difficult stage in my life and allowed me to really find myself.”

When playing the violin, Moltke combines his own personal flair with stylings similar to Itzhak Perlman, a famous violinist, to create an alluring and enchanting vibrato that is both soothing and romantic.  For compositions, Moltke finds inspiration in classical musicians such as Johann Bach and Pyotr Tchakovsky.  Blending classical music with a modern twist creates an unparalleled style of music that Moltke can call his own.

“I do not want to sound like anyone else,” said Moltke.  “I want to have my own distinct style of music.”

After completing his first year at Agoura High School, Moltke was accepted into Ollerup Musikefterskole, a performing arts boarding school in Europe.  He took a year off from school to tour across the continent, exploring his ability as a violinist and learning from experts.  After his year in Europe, Moltke transferred to CHS and joined the music program.  Since completing his tour around Europe and coming to the school, Moltke has won several awards.  He won a gold medal for the contemporary festival, a gold medal for the modern music festival, an outstanding solo award and the Maestro Award for outstanding solo with the orchestra.  He also advanced to state finals for a violin competition.

Although Moltke does not yet know where he will be attending college, he intends to major in composition and violin performance at a university in San Francisco, Calif. or Washington D.C.  With his ambition, dedication and talent, Moltke will strive to accomplish his dreams as a musician. •