Auckland Philharmonia speaks with violinist Yeyeong Jenny Jin ahead of her performance of Mozart's Violin Concerto No.3 ‘Strassburg.
What draws you to Mozart’s music?
His music reveals a deeper beauty with each listen. As a child, I saw it as simple, but now it resonates with greater meaning. Similar to Bach, playing his music feels like a true reflection of who I am—there’s no hiding behind its purity. I admire him deeply, and his work continually challenges me to grow.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve received?
Be yourself.
How has your experience been with winning the Michael Hill International Violin competition?
It has truly changed me from within. Winning the Michael Hill International Violin competition has given me courage in my musical direction, and I want to continue growing and learning new things. I feel grateful for the trust that has been placed in me, and I approach this with humility. Being on this tour to connect with different audiences and musicians feels like a dream come true.
What is your favourite way to prepare for a performance?
I like to treat it as a normal day, even though my heartbeat tells a different story as I get closer to the performance. I enjoy a good meal for energy, and before I step on stage I remind myself that it's always about the music.
Do you have a process for learning a violin concerto before a performance?
I like to run through it once or twice as if I already know the piece; the first few days are the most enjoyable part of learning a concerto! You get to envision your interpretation of the music, and I also love playing concertos. Then I focus on capturing the character and practice the movements in order. Since most of the time is usually spent on the first movement, I sometimes work backward for a balanced approach.
Favourite venue in the world? Dream venue to play?
Favourite venue in the world would be the Great Hall, Auckland Town Hall! I performed there last year and it was an experience that filled my heart with gratitude and joy. I’ll never forget the feeling I had in that hall, and that moment will be with me forever. A dream venue for me would be The Concertgebouw in Amsterdam. I remember watching a video as a child of a violinist walking down the hall’s stairs in her gown and it looked marvellous.
Do you have music that you love to play outside of practicing / performing?
I like to listen to pop songs when I’m on a run, especially trending K-pop songs.
Bayleys Great Classics
Mozart & Dvořák
Conductor Shiyeon Sung
Violin Yeyeong Jenny Jin
Mozart The Magic Flute: Overture
Mozart Violin Concerto No.3 ‘Strassburg’
Dvořák Symphony No.7