Age: 18
“I have always been driven by curiosity rather than deterred by fear when facing new environments. I find the greatest motivation in experiences that push me beyond my comfort zone toward growth. The preparation for this competition has been an exciting journey, and I hope that joy resonates through my music on stage.”
Seoyeon Baik started studying music at the age of six. “I began playing the violin after watching a close friend perform. Seeing her create such beautiful sounds deeply moved me and inspired a desire to explore my own musical voice.” Seoyeon then built a strong foundation at the Korea National Institute for the Gifted in Arts and Yewon School, and in 2023, she was admitted to the Korea National University of Arts (KNUA) at age 15.
Passionate about her instrument, Seoyeon mentions how the violin helps her to express herself. “To me, the violin is the most direct and instinctive language. It allows me to communicate complex thoughts and emotions that transcend the limits of language. Sharing these intimate feelings with an audience through my playing is what I find most profoundly meaningful.” Her participation in the Concours marks her first performance in North America.
Seoyeon received the Grand Prix at the Music Journal Competition and made her European debut in Leipzig in 2020. She also reached the semifinal in the Johansen International Competition and Young Tchaikovsky Competition (2022). In 2023, she became the youngest senior finalist at the Ysaÿe International Music Competition in Belgium, and later competed in the Stuttgart International Competition (2024) and the Isangyun International Competition, receiving the Seongywang Park Special Prize for Young Talent.
Seoyeon has performed with the Seocho Philharmonic and LG Philharmonic orchestras and in recitals sponsored by the Kumho Asiana Cultural Foundation. As concertmaster of the KNUA Orchestra and member of the Juvenis Quartet, she has gained valuable leadership and ensemble experience.
Seoyeon plays on a Joseph Ceruti violin.
Contact us to sponsor a competitor:
fondation@concoursmontreal.ca
