From listening to Baby Einstein DVDs to becoming an international violin competitor, Bethany Yang ‘25 has traversed through the lands of music with her violin. Despite only being a student at The Baldwin School for three years, Yang has already made a name for herself in the community.
Yang is a member of several prestigious orchestras, such as the Manhattan School of Music (MSM) Philharmonic Orchestra, and advanced chamber group programs. In addition, she has earned many certifications. Yang is a multiple-time winner of national and international competitions and has earned a place on the Dean’s List at MSM.
At Baldwin, Yang is the first chair violinist in the Orchestra and Jazz Band. She said the programs are a way to explore various genres, including jazz, musical theater, and pop. But, her heart always has a special space for classical music.
“Don’t be afraid to venture into classical music,” Yang said. “It’s a way to feel and process emotions.”
Yang’s parents, especially her mother, have supported her musical career due to the time they’ve spent traveling to her programs and competitions.
“She’s always been such a vocal supporter. She [believes] that music should occupy a place in your life where it serves as something that you really love and enjoy,” Yang said. “It should not be something that brings you more stress, especially because the music world can get pretty intense at times.”
Some of Yang’s favorite musicians are Tchaikovsky, Chopin, and Beethoven. She recently enjoyed playing pieces Korngold Concerto in D Major Op 35, Peace by Jessie Montgomery, Bach Sonata No. 1 in G minor – Adagio, and Leyendas: An Andean Walkabout for String Quartet by Gabriela Lena Frank.
Yang’s family, classmates, and teachers recognize her love for music.
Ms. Oxana Harlamova, Orchestra Director and Baldwin Conservator Director, said “Bethany is a passionate, hard-working artist who loves her instrument and truly loves music.”
In addition, she said Yang’s collaborative leadership skills and ability to perform and practice with her self-organized chamber groups were exemplary.
As Yang reflects upon her time as a student-musician, she emphasizes the significant impact of the violin on her life.
“Music has allowed me to connect with kids who are just as interested in it as I am. It’s easy to find common ground and to find other like-minded individuals,” she said. “It became a form of expression, and also accompanied me through a lot of obstacles.”
