Spotlight: - Joujou Nguyenphuc

Percussion - Endodontics Resident

What’s your connection to healthcare?

I am an endodontics resident, second year, at Penn Dental.

Why did you choose to pursue your current field?

I got into dentistry after a few years of bouncing around in the culinary scene, I was cooking, and I was also playing music, teaching lessons. And I became interested in how dentistry is a combination of the sciences and art. 

What instrument(s) do you play in PMSO, and how long have you played these instrument(s)?

In PMSO I play percussion, I’ve done this since high school. In college I played in percussion ensembles, like Japanese taiko. My main instruments, though, are piano and cello, which I've played in other orchestras in the past.

Why did you start playing your instrument(s) (percussion)?

In my middle school concert band they needed a percussionist. Because I had grown up playing piano and was able to read notes, I was playing a lot of bells and xylophone parts.

Why is music important to you?

Music, beyond being an expression, I think it's like enrichment. It's interesting for me in the way that people like literature. I appreciate music also as a snapshot into time, and as a community activity. I was a music student in college, so I really appreciate how it’s a snapshot into how culture has evolved over time.

Do you think music and healthcare can complement each other in any way?

I think it's a given that music is enriching for people: it's meaningful, it helps them express themselves and feel at peace. Beyond that, I think that the community side of being involved in music – whether it means going out to concerts and enjoying music with friends, or being part of a group where you create music together – means you are connecting with people around you. I think it’s a part of healthcare to just be invested in any group of people whose well-being you want to support.

Why did you get involved in PMSO?

I missed playing music in a group setting. I hadn’t done that in quite some time. And being new to the East Coast, I wanted to build a community outside of my very insular field of healthcare. 

What has your experience in PMSO been like so far?

It’s been fun! It feels very nostalgic to get back in touch with people and to to be working through music together, troubleshooting all the little mistakes and having fun on the side as well. 

What is your favorite piece that you’ve performed with us? Have there been any highlights of playing with the orchestra?

I can't remember what the name of the place was, but it was the first social that we went to last semester. It was after rehearsal, and it was a nice time to actually meet people and get to know their names and their backgrounds. 

Why should people come to the concert this year?

We have some great repertoire!  People don’t hear music by Price very often, and also, we have a piano in the orchestra and I have a soft spot for that.  Rachmaninoff is one of my favorite composers.

Interview with Joujou Nguyenphuc prior to the Fall 2024 concert. Published 12/8/2024