What About Me

De: Emily Zwijack

Narrado por: Emily Zwijack

Emily Zwijack's debut book is a raw and powerful exploration of life behind the curtain of conservatory and classical music. As a gifted violinist and teacher, Emily devoted her life to her art, rising through the ranks of a prestigious music conservatory. But behind the stage lights and sonatas, she endured repeated sexual abuse at the hands of a trusted professor—an experience that would fracture her sense of safety and identity. She works to break free from her abuser, enduring a long battle with complex PTSD, and a harrowing confrontation with an institutional system more invested in reputation than justice. While struggling to access basic protections and recognition, Emily also faces the daily pressure of coursework, recitals, and graduation requirements. The same discipline and focus that fueled her musicianship became a double—edged sword-helping her cope, while also masking the depth of her trauma.

This book is both a personal reckoning and a call to action. With unflinching honesty, Emily examines how abuse persists in elite institutions, how the justice system routinely fails survivors, and how healing can be non-linear, messy, and still deeply transformative. Through moments of vulnerability, rage, and resilience, she charts a path forward—not just for herself, but for others navigating similar battles. What About Me? is a testament to the power of storytelling, the necessity of accountability, and the enduring strength of survivors. It is a book for anyone who has ever struggled to be heard—and for those ready to listen.

©2025 Emily Zwijack (P)2025 Emily Zwijack

Heartbreaking, and required reading for anyone wanting to teach or major in music

This was a very eye opening book that documented so horrific events that took place during an undergraduate degree. I applaud the author for being as honest and open about the situation as she was. I feel that this should be required reading for anybody who wants to teach music, and required reading for anybody who wants to major in this. While these type of things don't happen to everybody, they happen to way too many people, and we should be more aware of the signs to look for, and how to navigate the legal system when it does. this author provides both of those answers.

This was very well written, although difficult to listen to at times due to the subject matter. This book will make you very angry, as it should. Bravo to the author for her courage and bravery in sharing this account.