Prizewinners Announced at the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra Young Artist Competition

Young violinist Minji Kim received first prize of $1,000 and a performance opportunity

The 16-year-old violinist Minji Kim has been named the winner of the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra Young Artist Competition for 2023. Kim was selected from four finalists and received a cash prize of $1,000 and the opportunity to perform at the A2SO's Link Up Youth Concert.

A student at Skyline High School, Kim first began learning the violin from her mother at the age of 4. Her current teacher is Aaron Berofsky, a professor at the University of Michigan's School of Music, Theater, and Dance. She received first prize at the Rosalie Edwards Youth Music Competition and has participated in the Interlochen Summer Arts Camp, Indiana University Strings Academy, and the World Youth Symphony Orchestra

Cellist Kevin Baek was named the competition's runner-up and will receive a cash prize of $500. Baek is studying with Amir Eldan, also at the University of Michigan, and is a member of the Michigan City Youth Orchestra. He has won the Lansing Matinee Musicale Performing Arts Students String Competition and was recently awarded third place at the Michigan Music Teachers Association Concerto Competition.

The jury comprised members of the A2SO, and they commended the high level of playing demonstrated by each of the finalists.