#PROFspective: Classical Performance Major Luke Altman

Luke outfront of Wilson Hall with his guitar and amp outfront Rowan University sign

Today, we speak with Luke Altman, a sophomore classical performance major from Westfield, N.J. (Union County) who lives on campus in 230 Victoria Street. Luke will share his #PROFspective with us on what it’s like to be a Rowan University student and how he gets the most out of his college experience as a Rowan Prof.

Name: Luke AltmanLuke out front silver garage with his orange and red guitar
Major: Classical Performance
Year: Sophomore
Hometown and County: Westfield, N.J. (Union County)
Resident: Yes, 230 Victoria Street

Share an “a ha!” moment you’ve had within your major that made you feel passionate about your intended field.
My first master class was really inspiring. I got to watch all the guitar majors perform and I got to see how talented a lot of the students were. It definitely motivates me to become better and practice more everyday when I see the upperclassmen play very demanding pieces.

Describe for us an experience you’ve shared with a professor in which you felt like you were working with a visionary in your field.

Luke inside Wilson Hall holding guitar in front of Live Recording Studio roomProfessor Joseph Mayes was once discussing a practice routine with me and I saw how diligent his work ethic was when preparing a piece. After that lesson, I knew that he really was a master at his craft and I am very happy to be studying under him.

Describe for us an on-campus experience (academic or non-academic) in which you felt that your future goals are supported.

Luke sitting playing guitar in a practice room in Wilson Hall with his amps At an open mic night in my freshman year, I performed a few songs and when I was done a reporter came up to me and asked if he could interview me for a piece he was doing in the student newspaper, The Whit. I came to that open mic to get some exposure and meet some musicians, but I was not expecting to be interviewed and featured in the Rowan paper. It felt great and I was really proud of my performance that night.

What’s your favorite thing about your typical Monday at Rowan?

Luke sitting on statue outside Robinson circle holding his guitar in a leather jacket and sunglasses My favorite thing about Monday is coming home and working on my electric playing. I have a lot of free time and it allows me to keep up with my practices on electric guitar. I love playing guitar. Its the perfect medicine for whatever stressful situation I am going through. Although I am here for classical guitar, that will never replace electric in my life. I’ve always connected with the chaotic, “out of control” style of lead guitar and it truly speaks to me in a way that nothing else in my life ever has. I hope to take what I learn here at Rowan and apply it to my music and become a better artist and musician.

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Story by: Luke Altman, sophomore classical performance major
Photography by: Vanessa Vause, senior public relations, advertising & theatre major