Meet the Musicians: Charlie Lin, First Violin
What do you love most about your instrument?
I love the history of the violin and the palpable evolution which has shaped it. It feels as if you’re stepping into a conversation that’s been going on for centuries. There’s more music than anyone could ever fully absorb, and it keeps evolving.
What other genres of music do you like to listen to?
I like house, drum and bass, and hip hop. But I’ve always kind of bounced around based on what Spotify recommends to me. Recently, I’ve been listening to Yousuke Yukimatsu, a Japanese DJ who has introduced me to a lot of great music.
Do you have a favorite place to practice?
I used to love practicing at my university’s practice rooms. It kept me grounded and locked in. These days when I practice at home, my cat, Weeble, comes over and bites me.
What’s the first thing you do when you come off stage?
For sure, eat. I love late-night food, and because I usually don’t eat much before performing, the munchies hit even harder. I recommend chicken shawarma!
What’s your most memorable performance since joining the SLSO?
While there are too many to count, it would have to be [my] first Forest Park concert, which was also my first time playing with the SLSO. I remember getting goosebumps and not being sure whether it was from hearing the orchestra’s sound or the surreal feeling of being part of it. Regardless, despite the anxiety that came with having just started with the SLSO, for that moment it was completely fulfilling, and seeing the crowd take up the hill that night will stay with me for a long time.
Learn more about Charlie here.
Compiled by Iain Shaw.
