Tin Yan Lee

Profile

Awards/Competitions: 2017 Hong Kong Scholarship for Excellence Scheme; Champion, 2014 Hong Kong Bauhinia Cup String Competition, Violin Open Class; Western Instrument Scholarship, 2014 HK Students Open Music Competition

Appearances: Pro Arte Orchestra of Hong Kong, 2014–17; CUHK Chung Chi Orchestra, 2013–17; Metropolitan Youth Orchestra of Hong Kong, 2010–13; Walnut Hill Music Festival, U.S., 2016; Asian Youth Orchestra, 2015

What is your earliest memory of classical music? Violin group lessons playing Suzuki Violin School

When did you realize you wanted to pursue music as a career? When I was studying for my undergraduate degree in Hong Kong.

How did you hear about TŌN? What inspired you to apply? I first heard of TŌN from a violist friend in Hong Kong. After I graduated from Indiana University, my teacher recommended this program to me.

Which composer or genre of music do you feel you connect with the most? Mozart is always my love!

What is your favorite piece of music, and why do you love it? Brahms’ Violin Concerto for the amazing harmonies and heart-warming melodies

What has been your favorite experience as a musician? Going on a music tour with friends

Do you have any embarrassing performance stories? I once fell down on the stage when I was walking out as a concertmaster for tuning.

What is some advice you would give to your younger self? Explore. Think. Practice.

Favorite non-classical musician or band: JJ Lin

If you could play another instrument, what would it be? Cello

If you weren’t a musician, what would you be doing? A pastry chef

What is your favorite place you’ve traveled to and why? Japan, because of the nice people, beautiful scenery, and DELICIOUS FOOD!

Tell us something about yourself that might surprise us: I started playing the violin at 5 years old, but fell in love with it during high school.

Piece of advice for a young classical musician: Live every day and play music until no regrets.