Each month in the Orchestra’s Playbill, we feature one musician in a question-and-answer segment. Below is that feature in its entirety.
Where were you born? I was born in Japan, but I grew up in Korea.
What piece of music could you play over and over again? Bach’s Chaconne.
What is your most treasured possession? My violin and bow … and my stuffed toys that I secretly collect.
What’s your favorite Philadelphia restaurant? There are so many, but if had to pick one, I would pick Parc. I love sitting there looking out at the Curtis Institute across the street. It brings back good memories of my times at Curtis, and of course I love their food, too.
Tell us about your instrument. I play a violin by Stefano Scarampella of Mantua, Italy, c. 1915.
What’s in your instrument case? My violin, two bows, a shoulder rest, pencils, some extra strings, a practice mute, and a cat plush.
What piece of music never fails to move you? The Adagio movement [third] of Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No. 2. I think my section has the most beautiful part among all the others.
When did you join the Orchestra? In September 2017.
Do you play any other instruments? Piano and viola.
What’s your favorite type of food? Everything cooked by my mom. I am so lucky to have my mom who is an amazing cook.
What books are on your nightstand? Hard copy or e-reader? A hard copy of The Message by Eugene H. Peterson. It is the Bible translated into contemporary language.
Do you speak any other languages? Korean, my first language.
Do you have any hobbies? I really enjoy playing the piano during my free time.
Do you have a favorite movie?Amadeus. I have watched it about five times and I loved it every single time. I had so much fun playing in Amadeus Live back in September.
What’s the last recording you purchased? CD or download? I downloaded Mahler’s Fifth symphony with the Berlin Philharmonic and Simon Rattle conducting.
What’s on your iPod? I don't have an iPod, but I use the app Spotify on my phone and tablet. I have saved all the repertoire we are playing for the next three months.
When was the first time you heard The Philadelphia Orchestra? During my first year at Curtis, in 2007.
Other than Verizon Hall, where is your favorite place to perform? Carnegie Hall.
Photo by Sophie Zhai