Inspired by her older sister and private teacher, violinist, sophomore Constance Kuan auditioned for the prestigious musical group SFSYO in 2023 and received a spot in the first violin section. In the three years since then, Kuan said the group has provided her with valuable opportunities to sharpen her musical skills with aspiring musicians all around the Bay Area.
“I like the people that I meet there, because it’s really nice to be surrounded by people who are interested in the same hobby,” Kuan said. “It’s improved my awareness of being able to listen. It’s also made my standards for myself higher because I’ve met so many talented and really great players there.”
With around 200 applicants a year, but only 40 spots, the symphony is extremely selective, SFSYO youth orchestra director Radu Paponiu said. As a violinist, Kuan has proven to be an incredibly committed member of the symphony, Paponiu said.
“[Kuan’s] technical and musical level is absolutely fantastic,” Paponiu said. “On every occasion, I’ve been impressed with the kind of spirit she has brought to rehearsal and performance. That’s a testament to her success so far, which I’m convinced she’s going to continue.”
While playing can be a challenge at times, Kuan said being part of such an advanced orchestra has improved her ability to analyze music, resulting in better performances.
“I want to get better. I like knowing that I can strive for perfection,” Kuan said. “It can be frustrating to work on one thing over and over, [but I] just keep pushing.”
As a friend of Kuan at SFSYO, violinist and Monte Vista High School sophomore Carolyn Ren said Kuan’s level of musical attention creates a motivating environment within the orchestra.
“She’s very honest about her own opinion and doesn’t give you BS,” Ren said. “She’s a really, really sweet person.”
Kuan also brings her advanced experience to the HHS orchestra, helping fellow members improve their skills, violinist, senior Sofia Tedesco said.
“She’s really helpful when it comes to figuring out fingerings,” Tedesco said. “A lot of us aren’t as experienced as her, and she uses her experience in a good way.”
Even as an older player, Tedesco said she feels inspired by Kuan’s level of playing and sees her as an energetic role model.
“Sometimes I forget just how amazing she plays. If I’m sitting next to her, [I] can just hear her beautiful tone,” Tesdesco said. “She helps to make [orchestra] a more fun place.”
As she continues to develop her violin skills, Kuan said that SFSYO has allowed her to share her talent by performing for crowds, making all the hours spent practicing worthwhile.
“It’s really fun to play with the symphony, because it’s really nice to be able to share something that we work on so much during the week, and to be able to share with that many people,” Kuan said. “To have so many people come and watch this, it’s just very fun and really joyous.”
