The beginning, youth, searching and reminiscing ― these are the four stages of life that the young up-and-coming violinist Cho Jin-joo is looking to explore in her upcoming solo concert series as a Kumho Art Hall resident artist.

The 26-year-old will perform four solo concerts this year, with each concert dedicated to one of the aforementioned stages of life. From her trials and tribulations after moving to the States to develop her musical gifts, to the pangs of youth, joys of love and reminiscences about life’s defining and most-cherished moments, Cho has selected a range of classical pieces that she feels best encompasses her life story. 

“To be a resident artist for Kumho and to be given such a wonderful opportunity to perform at such a young age is truly a thrilling and gratifying moment for me,” Cho said during a press conference at Kumho Art Hall on Tuesday.

The violinist has been attracting worldwide attention in the classical music realm after claiming a number of high profile music accolades including first prize at the International Violin Competition of Indianapolis, along with wins at the Buenos Aires International Violin Competition in 2010 and the Isangyun Competition in 2011.

“For me to hold my own recital in Korea at my age is a very difficult thing,” she added. “As an artist, I believe that this is a critical time for me to be able to work on my depth and voice as a musician.”

Cho has established herself as one of her generation’s leading violinists, with her musical style oftentimes regarded as vibrant, yet having warm, engaging and sensual components. The artist will be performing alongside the pianist Kim Hyun-soo. Audience members can anticipate a seductively heightened musical chemistry between the two as they perform together on stage.

“We are very close friends. I always go to him in my time of need, when I (am) down and need to be lifted, we are always there for each other,” the violinist said, noting that their close relationship allows their music to have a more intimate and meshed sound.

Cho will kick-start her upcoming solo concert series with “The Beginning” on Jan. 8 at Kumho Art Hall. She will then return to the stage to perform her “Youth,” “Searching” and “Reminiscing” recitals on April 30, July 16 and Oct. 1, respectively.

Tickets to the violin recitals can be purchased online at Kumho Art Hall’s website or Interpark with ticket prices ranging from 9,000 won for youths, and 30,000 won and 40,000 won for adults. For more information, visit www.kumhoarthall.com.

By Julie Jackson (juliejackson@heraldcorp.com)