The Hotchkiss Philharmonic welcomed its first guest performer, world-class violinist Lü Siqing P ’27, on Saturday, November 4.
Mr. Lü is an artistic ambassador of the Melbourne Symphony and head of the violin department at Naxos International, an international classical music label. Mr. Lü was the first Asian musician to win the international Paganini Competition. He has been part of multiple international music festivals and released over a dozen solos and concertos albums.
The Philharmonic Orchestra allows select student musicians to rehearse and perform alongside thirty professional musicians. Mr. Witkowski, head of the visual and performing arts department, and conductor of the Philharmonic said, “I am proud of what we have accomplished with this season opener. It is wonderful to see the Philharmonic students rising to become young professionals in these concerts.”
“It was a privilege to work with Mr. Lü during rehearsals—he showed great respect to all of our students and orchestra members. With his charisma and professionalism, it was a wonderful experience,” Mr. Witkowski added.
Yobin Kim ’26, first chair violinist of the orchestra, said, “I have played and heard the Mendelssohn violin concerto by professionals multiple times from the audience. However, this experience playing as a part of the orchestra and working closely with a world-class violinist has been unforgettable.”
The program consisted of Beethoven’s Egmont Overture, Op. 84, the Haydn’s Brahms Variation on a Theme, Op. 64, and Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64.
Audience member and pianist Daniel Li ’24 said, “The orchestra’s performance was fantastic. Mr. Lü’s performance and intonation were breathtaking. I greatly enjoyed his sweet, rich phrasing.”
The next Philharmonic performance will be on February 7, 2024 and feature guest conductor Lawrence Golan and flutist Brandon Patrick George.
