On March 1st, fourteen-year-old Erin Zhou performed the third movement of Max Bruch’s Violin Concerto No. 1 in G minor at Thayer Hall within The Colburn School in downtown Los Angeles.
A Highly Competitive Honor
Zhou, an eighth grader at Mary Putnam Henck Intermediate School, was selected as a featured soloist with the Los Angeles Youth Philharmonic Chamber – a 24-member ensemble chosen from nearly 400 musicians within the larger Los Angeles Youth Philharmonic Orchestra (LAYPO). The selection process is rigorous; Dr. Chung typically reviews around 240 audition videos and accepts only 60 to 70 each year.
Students must first be enrolled in the LAYPO symphony orchestra to be eligible to audition as a soloist. Even after nomination, Zhou explained, soloists must submit three prepared pieces, from which the conductor selects one for performance.
A Personal Breakthrough
Zhou began studying the Bruch concerto in January 2025, and resumed perform on the third movement in September of the same year. She described the piece as representing a turning point in her musical journey, realizing she could perform at the level she had practiced for.
The performance at Thayer Hall was particularly meaningful. Despite initial nerves, Zhou focused on the moment, recognizing it as a unique opportunity. She recalled a moment of doubt just two weeks prior, questioning her ability to master the opening passage, but ultimately succeeding on stage.
A Performance Dedicated to Self
Zhou dedicated the performance to herself, acknowledging her recent progress and recognizing the value of her practice. She has been playing violin since age six and currently serves as co-concertmaster of the Mountaintop Strings of California, in addition to her fourth season with LAYPO.
Looking Ahead
Zhou’s musical journey continues this summer with a tour of Italy as co-concertmaster with Mountaintop Strings of California, performing Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. She will also compete in Cremona, a city renowned for violin craftsmanship. Following the tour, she is scheduled to perform at Walt Disney Concert Hall and Carnegie Hall with LAYPO.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ensemble did Erin Zhou perform with?
Erin Zhou performed with the Los Angeles Youth Philharmonic Chamber, a 24-member ensemble selected from the larger Los Angeles Youth Philharmonic Orchestra (LAYPO).
What piece did Erin Zhou perform?
Erin Zhou performed the third movement of Max Bruch’s Violin Concerto No. 1 in G minor.
Where did Erin Zhou perform?
Erin Zhou performed at Thayer Hall within The Colburn School in downtown Los Angeles.
What does it take to reach this level of musical achievement, and what might the future hold for young musicians like Erin Zhou?
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