Sarah Lawrence College’s reputation for artistic excellence and intellectual curiosity was on full display at the Crestwood Library on November 9, when Raphael Hendrick-Baker ’26 and Eloy Pampin ’27 performed as part of the library’s centennial celebration. The duo captivated a full house with a program of classical and Baroque works and thoughtful commentary.
Audience members described the pair as “poised, eloquent, and excellent violinists,” praising the grace with which they performed, answered questions, and discussed their approach to music.
For Raphael, the event was a meaningful extension of the work he has developed across his interdisciplinary SLC education — he has pursued political science, international political economy, and sound design alongside intensive music study. “When I came to SLC, I wasn’t sure how much longer I wanted to keep studying music,” he reflects. “Choosing to continue gave me more agency, and the biggest growth has been enjoying it. I’ve unlocked a new level of understanding and artistic interpretation.”
Raphael credits Richard Rood (Music) with his artistic development and highlights faculty members Pat Muchmore (Music), Yekaterina Oziashvili (Politics), Una Chung (Literature), Carsten Schmidt (Music), and staff accompanist and Chamber Music coach Hyun Mee Kim as especially influential. He also notes that SLC’s chamber program prepared him well for a duo performance: “You learn to listen and play with anyone.”
Eloy, who began playing music at age four and was recruited to the SLC men’s soccer team, was drawn to the College for its open curriculum and the freedom to pursue all his interests — music, psychology, sociology, and soccer — without having to choose between them. He’s performed each semester in ensembles and chamber groups, including contemporary and tango-influenced works, and studies violin with Ragga Petursdottir (Music), who he says has transformed his playing. Working with faculty such as John Yannelli (Music), Maia Pujara (Psychology), and David Peritz (Politics) has reinforced a simple lesson: “The more I’ve given, the more I’ve gotten back.”
Both students agreed that the Crestwood Library concert felt different from their regular campus performances. The intimate crowd of around 30 community members was eager to ask questions and learn. Raphael and Eloy introduced each piece, offering context on theory and musical interpretation, turning the afternoon into both a recital and a conversation.
“I realized I know a lot right now, and I can share that with others,” Eloy said afterward.
As the audience applauded, it was clear that Sarah Lawrence students continue to make their mark well beyond campus.