Biography
Violinist Minjin Lee, a native of South Korea, is an avid orchestral and chamber musician who has performed extensively throughout Europe, Russia, South Korea, and the United States. Minjin is a first violinist of the Allentown Symphony and York Symphony Orchestras, and has performed regularly with Annapolis Symphony and Washington Chamber Orchestras. She is also a core member of the Kennedy String Quartet, based in D.C.
A graduate of the Peabody Conservatory at Johns Hopkins University, she earned her Master of Music degree and Graduate Performance Diploma under the tutelage of Herbert Greenberg, former concertmaster of the Baltimore Symphony. During her time at Peabody, she received the Artistic Excellence Award and the J.C. Van Hulsteyn Award. She served as the concertmaster of the Peabody Chamber Orchestra and the associate concertmaster of the Peabody Conductors Orchestra. She has made appearances in masterclasses led by Leon Fleisher, the Brentano String Quartet, and the Jupiter String Quartet.
Minjin has participated in several music festivals including Summit, Atlantic, Texas, Napa Valley Music Festival, David Kim Orchestral Institute, Pacific Region International Summer Music Academy, and Prague Summer Nights, where she worked with musicians from Berlin Philharmonic, Munich Radio Orchestra, Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, and Philadelphia Symphony.
In addition to her performance career, Minjin Lee is dedicated to sharing her passion for the violin with students in Howard County, Maryland. Her students have achieved remarkable success, with many earning acceptance into various honors groups throughout the state, showcasing her commitment to developing the next generation of talented violinists.
Nurturing Musical and Personal Growth through the Violin
As a violin teacher, my mission extends beyond merely imparting technical knowledge and skill. I believe that the journey of learning the violin has the potential to transform my students into sensitive, compassionate, and well-rounded individuals who appreciate beauty and understand the value of effort. Through this pursuit of musical excellence, I aim to help my students cultivate a greater love for life, art, and self-expression.
Developing Sensitivity and Awareness
I strive to create an environment where students learn to be sensitive to the emotions and nuances present in music. By honing their ability to discern the subtle differences in pitch, tone, and dynamics, they will also become more attuned to the feelings of those around them. This increased awareness allows them to better understand the world and fosters a more profound connection with music and art.
Cultivating Patience and Persistence
Learning to play the violin requires patience and determination. I emphasize the importance of consistent practice and dedication, teaching students to persevere through challenges and setbacks. By developing these qualities, they will not only grow as musicians but also as individuals capable of handling life's obstacles with resilience.
Encouraging Attentive Listening
A crucial aspect of being a good musician is learning to listen closely. I teach students to carefully listen to their own playing, to other musicians, and to the world around them. This skill not only enhances their musical abilities but also helps them become better communicators and empathetic individuals.