Phillip Ying Fun Facts
Q: Where do you get your musical inspiration?
A: My inspiration for making music comes from the deep connection I feel between music and the human spirit. Above almost anything that human beings create, I find that music engages and expresses every facet of the human soul. From the mightiest roars of joy and triumph to the quietest sighs of sadness or despair, from outpourings of love to outbursts of anger, from the heights of storminess to the quietest moments of peace, it's all there! Being a musician means the incredible privilege and responsibility of bringing musical compositions to life in a way that resonates with every one of us and tells us more about who we are in a most profound way.
Q: What made you first realize you wanted to pursue a career in music?
A: Music came upon me slowly but steadily. When I was growing up, my parents wanted me to take music lessons because they felt like it was an important part of a well-rounded education. What they also did, however, was to make sure we lived in school districts with outstanding string programs, and encouraged me to go to summer music camps from the time I was about 12 years old. Through all these experiences-- being around other passionate musicians, both teachers and peers, and attempting to play the greatest works of music, even if I didn't sound that great when I first tried-- music became a stronger and stronger part of who I am. I'm so fortunate that I had great teachers all along who inspired me, and one step at a time led me into a career in music. nbsp;
Q: What are some current projects you are working on?
A: With my quartet, we're working on some late Beethoven (Opp. 127 and 131) for upcoming concerts. It doesn't get much better than that. With cellist Zuill Bailey, my quartet is working on expanding the cello quintet repertoire with works by Schumann and Beethoven. With pianist and composer Billy Childs, my quartet is blending elements of classical and jazz with new works by Billy for us.
Q: What drew you to the Colorado College Summer Music Festival?
A: CCSMF is a fantastic festival with a wonderful artist faculty-- each an amazing performer and teacher-- along with an extremely talented group of fellows. It is perfectly sized for personal attention and interaction on every level, and the mix of solo, chamber music, and orchestral is very effective. I look forward to being a part of this vibrant community all year long and then am sad when it is over and I have to wait another year!
Q: What are you most excited for this upcoming festival season?
A: I get very excited about the faculty chamber music recitals because I always learn so much from performing with my colleagues. I also get very excited about all the student performances that take place. The fellows come together for orchestra and chamber music, and even in a very short amount of time, the results can be spectacular!
- Phillip Ying 2015
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Last updated: 12/17/2020