The Oregon Mozart Players team followed up with 2020 OMP Young Soloist Competition Senior Division winner Ian Song to find out what he’s been up to since his win and if he had any advice for this year’s finalists.
How does music inspire you?
Music has been a constant motivator ever since I was four years old when my parents handed me a violin. Their goals were to enrich my emotions and develop my brain. I think that goal has been achieved to some extent. Music has been a powerful neurological tool that helps me refresh my mindset; indulging in music uplifts the spirit. Truly, music is inspiring as the universal language of emotion.
What are you currently up to (college applications, other competitions, performance endeavors, etc.)?
As a high school senior, I am swamped with college planning and applications. I have long agonized over selecting a college major. Music will remain an essential part of whatever path I choose. At the very least, I will be involved in a collegiate orchestra. My participation in music competitions has been on pause after I won this year's soloist competition held by the National Symphony Orchestra's Summer Music Institute. As an extracurricular activity, I have been heavily involved in community services since I founded a nonprofit organization last year, called toRhapsody (www.toRhapsody.org/media). Run by student musicians, toRhapsody aims to empower through benefit and fundraising performances for those in need, including seniors and hospital patients.
What role does music play in your life?
Music has engrained personal values and broadened my perspective on life. I often touch my "violin hickey,'' an inflamed patch on the neck that is formed over time by the pinching of the violin between the jawbone and the collarbone. The mark symbolizes perseverance and determination, as well as unadulterated love for the violin, my fellow violinists, musicians, and all people. I know that my hickey will grow larger in the future.
How has winning this competition impacted you?
I am an introvert; more often than not, I feel timid and awkward in public. Winning the OMP Young Soloist Competition was a major confidence booster and a performance enhancer. More than that, the memories I've gained through this competition will remain with me for a lifetime: the feeling when the endless hours of intense practice are finally showcased on stage, the unconditional support from Conductor Kuo and OMP, the cheering of the audience, etc.
What advice do you have for those thinking about entering this year's competition?
I have participated in quite a few young artist competitions and experienced the rollercoaster of emotional and physical conditions throughout the process of preparation and competition. Sometimes, I become resentful of why I should perfect a piece of music with such accuracy and intricacy. Whenever these thoughts kick in, I try to think about the similar struggles my fellow musicians are experiencing. We are all working together to raise the standards of performance, to improve the universal language of emotion. You are probably eager to learn from others. In return, have the courage to be yourself and contribute your own interpretation!