From the moment his hands first touched the cello strings, senior Oooju Robinson was captivated by the sound, an interest that would only grow stronger.
“I started playing cello when I was 6. When I first started playing, I was the one reminding my parents that I had to practice,” Robinson said.
At six, Robinson wasn’t just learning to play the cello, he was discovering a lifelong passion. Robinson joined several Woodbridge High music programs, expressing his love for going out of his comfort zone and learning new instruments. He played tuba in the marching band and electric bass in the jazz band. He also joined the Woodbridge High Entertainers, a vocal jazz choir, this year. His love for music is represented through Robinson’s most unforgettable experiences.
“Being the soloist at the Pacific Symphony’s Holiday Concert…I was 15 when I got this opportunity, and I was stressed out of my mind, but when it was all over and I was standing there in front of the cheering crowd, it was the greatest feeling in the world,” Robinson said.
His experiences solidified his passion for music.
“I wasn’t really set on being a music major until the summer going into my ninth-grade year, where I had to choose if I wanted to go down the academic [path] or go all in on cello…I’ve never regretted that decision,” Robinson said.
Robinson is auditioning for music schools to pursue a major in cello performance and a career in classical music.
“Oooju is an outstanding musician and mentor. He has participated in our top orchestra for four years, and it has been wonderful to see him evolve into the musician he is today,” music department chair Joslynne Blasdel said.
Robinson’s teachers all played a major role in his growth in these programs, which in turn has motivated him further.
“Ms. Blasdel and Mr. Harris [has]…trusted me with leadership positions that have allowed me to take on so many roles in the program,” Robinson said.
Robinson expresses his gratitude to Avery Smith, his jazz teacher. “Ms. Smith has taught me lots of interesting things about jazz, like chord structures, music theory and improv,” Robinson said.
Vocal music director Jim Blackett guided him in learning to sing, and Robinson credits him to learning how to become his best self. “Mr. Blackett has really opened my eyes to the world of choral music. I thought singing was very simple, but I’m learning from him how complex it is and how to use your voice like an instrument,” Robinson said.
Blackett commends Robinson for his recent accomplishments in his class. “While he has been my student since only the beginning of this year, he brings outstanding musicianship and vocal strength to the choir classroom, even performing in a trio at our recent holiday concert,” Blackett said.
Robinson’s love for music doesn’t stop at just other instruments. He constantly seeks musical opportunities and embraces musical challenges. Instrumental music teacher Brad Harris reminisces on a special memory.
“[Oooju] guest played with the wind ensemble and learned string bass for one of the movements and electric bass for the second movement…and when we finished the performance, we had a standing ovation with cheering and I looked back at him and he had the biggest smile on his face. I knew then how much joy he gets out of music and performing,” Harris said.
As Robinson prepares for the next chapter of his journey, his success at Woodbridge High reflects his hard work, dedication and perseverance, serving as an inspiration for others.
