On February 17, Carlissa Gudiño, a junior Music with an Emphasis in Business major and Artistic Operations Intern at the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, had the opportunity to work backstage with world-renowned pianist Yuja Wang during the orchestra’s annual Rhapsody Gala.

As part of the Artistic Operations, Carlissa supported Yuja throughout the day of rehearsals and evening performance. Her responsibilities included organizing hospitality items, assisting in coordinating backstage logistics, escorting the artist between engagements and serving as a runner to ensure the event ran smoothly. At the conclusion of the evening’s concert, Carlissa had the honor of presenting her with flowers onstage, just before she returned to play five encores.

For Gudiño, the experience was especially meaningful. She describes Yuja Wang as one of her role models, noting that the pianist “changed the game on the expectations for being a female performer in classical music.” Working closely with an artist she admires provided both professional insight and personal inspiration.