What is your earliest memory of classical music?
When my parents took me to a violin recital at age of seven
Was there a teacher who was particularly impactful/helpful? What made this instructor stand out?
Yes, there was a teacher who introduced me to the way of playing the violin without a shoulder rest when my left shoulder got injured terribly. He is also the one who originally suggested that I play the violin.
What made you decide to become a musician? Was there a particular performance or person that influenced your decision?
When I was playing in my first formal orchestra concert at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, we played Brahms. There was a moment where the brass was playing with the whole orchestra which impressed me so much as a member of this music-making process, that I decided then to pursue this as my future career.
How did you hear about TŌN? What inspired you to apply?
When I started my master’s program at Bard I learned about it from my schoolmates in SFCM and also my teacher, Erica Kiesewetter.
How would you like to see orchestra concerts evolve in the future?
I hope that modern tools can help orchestral music become more and more accessible to the public.
What is the most memorable performance you ever had?
So many of them! Some of them were the orchestral concerts when I tried my best to stay with the conductor and the whole orchestra, that I felt the power and energy from the team.
What is your proudest achievement as a musician?
Getting into TŌN is a really encouraging thing for me.
Is there a person or people you most respect in your field and why?
All of my violin teachers, because they are always inspiring and passionate to show me the best part of making music in many different ways.
Tell us about a time you almost gave up but didn’t.
The first time I realized that I don’t have perfect pitch. But then I trained my relative pitch to make it work the same way.
Can you share any memorable onstage mishaps?
There were a few times my brain went blank while I was playing, and I had to find the memory back while in front of the audience.
Do you have a favorite non-classical musician or band?
Michael Jackson, James Bay
If you weren’t a musician, what would you be doing?
Barista
What is a surprising part of playing your instrument that you think most people don’t know?
There is no visual reference to control the intonation.
What is the biggest challenge and/or surprise about playing in an orchestra?
Staying with the conductor and the orchestra not only in a rational but also emotional way.
What advice would you give your younger self or anyone starting out?
Do anything you thought about and try your best without any fear.
What do you wish you knew starting out that you know now?
Making mistakes is an necessary part of making progress.