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Concerto Winners: Erin Kim

Images of past Concerto Winners

Sophomore violin player Erin Kim began playing the violin at age 5, after admiring an older friend who was mastering the instrument. As the years went on, however, the violin became “more of a burden” to her, especially in middle school. The turning point for Erin arrived when she joined the Philharmonic Orchestra at NEC (New England Conservatory) in 2006 and went on a 3-week tour of China during the summer before freshman year. After seeing the way in which the orchestra was able to affect an audience that was famous for being emotionless—tears were seen streaming down spectators’ faces—Erin returned home and began “practicing like crazy.” She began to actively listen to classical music and wanted to play as much as possible. Although she currently plays field hockey, she manages to practice the violin for at least two hours a day in addition to her weekly private lesson. At the same time Erin manages an academic career and spends her Saturdays at NEC where she belongs to a string quartet and orchestra.

Encouraged by her mother, Erin competed in the Concerto competition her freshman year with the Saint-Saens Violin Concerto, a piece which her teacher chose. This year, she chose the more challenging Korngold Concerto, which, though fairly unknown, is thought by many to be “impossible” to play. For Erin, mastering the Concerto was a monumental achievement. Erin will play the Barber Violin Concerto when she performs with the LHS Honors Orchestra during the Concerto Concert on March 11th.

When contemplating her future plans, Erin understands the competitive environment of the music world. Although she does not want to make the violin her sole career, she would like to minor in the instrument in college and be an active member of an orchestra. In the future, Erin dreams of forming a group with her family and of encouraging her children to play instruments as well. Watch for Erin at the Concerto Concert on March 11th in the LHS Auditorium! Also, check back next week for an interview with Concerto Winner, Etasha Srinivas.

- Abha Gallewale