Audrey Kang ’24 is a passionate violinist who first began playing at the age of four; however, she first started taking the instrument seriously in middle school. She first started competing in violin competitions in 2016, with her first achievement being an honors award in the 2016 NJMTA spring recital. Over her years performing, she has won a multitude of awards, including first prize in the 2020 New York International Classical Music Competition, a gold medal in the 2021 Trinity International Music Competition, and second and third place in two separate categories of the 2023 Great Composers Competition Series. Additionally, Kang has been part of the PHS Orchestra since her freshman year. Throughout her time there, Kang has formed many friendships and created a tight-knit community that she continues to both support and rely on.

Questions to use:

What obstacles have you encountered and what made you keep going?

I would say time is my biggest constraint. Sometimes it’s difficult to find enough time to be able to play. But I like to play with my friends and violin is more of a social experience for me, and that is what encourages me to keep going.

Who is the biggest inspiration in your career so far?

My violin teacher is my biggest inspiration because she's very encouraging. I also love watching YouTube videos of violinists because I find it very inspiring to see people, sometimes my own age, be able to play so well.

What opportunities has it opened up for you?

I currently go to the Manhattan School of Music for their pre-college program, so violin has allowed me to do that. It’s also allowed me to be a part of [the] PHS Orchestra, including being a part of the musical and plays. I find [it] really fun to accompany music for many great songs as well.

How was your experience auditioning for the PHS Orchestra?

It was a while ago. I used the second movement piece of Root Concerto and Sonata to audition. You record a video and just send it in, so it was all online. With that, I was able to have lots of do-over opportunities, so it wasn't too nerve-racking.

How is your current experience in the PHS Orchestra?

It's so fun. I have so many friends in the Orchestra and playing is really a social experience for me because I get to play with my friends. I get to collaborate with them and talk about music with them.

What is your favorite performance you’ve put on, in your opinion?

My favorite performances are whenever I perform at a hall. In my most recent experience, I was auditioning for a concerto competition. It was the first time since the pandemic; it was very silent, and you were able to hear your own sound echoing off the walls. It almost felt out of this world in a way.

What skills have you gained that have helped you play effectively?

My teacher has definitely helped a lot with my technique. I had a previous teacher who told me that the way you hold the bow or the way your hand is shaped doesn't really matter as long as you can play the notes, but my current teacher told me that I have to be relaxed and hold the bow correctly without being tense, which allows for a much brighter sound. So he definitely helped fix my technique.

What advice would you give to anyone who wants to start playing an instrument?

Starting is hard — it’s always hard — but it really helps if you’re able to find a reason beyond just focusing on technique. Also, when you see someone play really well, don't try to view it as discouraging. … Instead, view it as inspiring and a way to keep moving forward and improving.