In the meantime, Budge is taking advantage of every opportunity. Not only is she an applied music major studying violin at Eastman, she is also a psychology major and brain and cognitive sciences minor at the University’s School of Arts & Sciences. Along the way, she’s performed in liveto-picture renditions of Danny Elfman’s Batman, cofounded a string quartet with friends, called the Avant Quartet, and earned the prestigious position of concertmaster for the Eastman Philharmonia. Budge has been recognized for her academic achievements, too. She’s on the 10 Without scholarship support, I probably never could have attended Eastman. Thus, the thought of giving someone else the opportunities I had rose in my mind. That’s why I set up this scholarship, to help wonderful young musicians like Ashni get an Eastman education. I’m so impressed by her and am overjoyed that I can help. —JOYCE OSBORN ’54E dean’s list and was inducted into Psi Chi, the International Honor Society for psychology students, as a sophomore. In 2022, Budge and her quartet participated in what’s become a life-changing experience for her: Eastman-to-Go. This one-semester chamber music course provides select ensembles opportunities to bring music into the Greater Rochester community, with a focus on presenting classical music to new, young audiences. Budge loved it, and so did the people with whom she interacted. For instance, at the Dr. Charles T. Lunsford School No. 19, one of the schools they visited, Budge’s influence was so significant that she was invited back for the 2023–24 academic year to give violin lessons to fifth graders. “Working with them has been among the best experiences of my life,” says Budge. “We even played a few pieces with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra over the winter holidays, which was a thrill for us all.” Next up for Budge? In the short term, she’s practicing for a Sibelius violin concerto and a performance of Schubert’s Cello Quintet in C Major. Long term, she hopes to go to graduate school for music. She’s even considering law school someday. Whatever Budge does, she knows music will always play a part. She adds, “Music has always given me an outlet, a way to express my feelings. As long as my life has music in it and involves some performing and watching people grow and develop, I’ll be happy. Thank you to all of the people who have supported me along the way— I’m forever grateful.”
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