Magazine
A legacy-driven media platform documenting Korean excellence in culture, economy, and identity
By Ga-bi Choi
Photo Credits: Provided by So-hyun Go
A few years ago, Pinchas Zukerman, one of the foremost musicians today, renowned for his substantial fan base in Korea, was captivated by the performance of a young girl in Korea. He lavishly praised her as “a miraculous child with a classic soul and mysterious talent.” That prodigious child is none other than Go So-hyun, who, after just two years of learning the violin, was selected as the youngest member of the Gum Nanse Children's Orchestra and captivated public attention by sweeping domestic competitions at the age of six. We met Go So-hyun, a young but mature artist who comprehends music with her heart rather than her head and performs with inspiration rather than sheer skill, in a Mom & I interview. With hopes that So-hyun will surpass her mentor, Pinchas Zukerman, and soon ascend to the ranks of world-renowned performers, we share her story with our readers.
In 2014, So-hyun participated in the ORF broadcast at Flachau, performing with a Mozart Violin. Additionally, she was interviewed by ORF at Mozart’s Wohnhaus. Capturing the imagination of many was her performance in traditional Austrian attire at Gossl.
Q: Hello, So-hyun. Are you currently attending a music camp in Virginia?
A: Yes, this is So-hyun Go. I'm participating in the HeifetzPEG program for the Exceptionally Gifted for the second consecutive year.
Q: How do you feel when people call you a prodigy?
A: I have never considered myself a genius. I believe God is guiding me to fulfill His plan, and I am willingly following joyfully.
Q: Why did you choose the violin among many instruments?
A: There was a violin academy right in front of my house. When I was around 37 months old, my mother took me to visit it, and seeing my interest, she enrolled me. I started learning with a paper violin and a straw bow made by my mother. Even if I had a choice now, I would still choose the violin.
While she practices diligently after school and dedicates weekends to her craft, performing with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra under Zukerman’s baton in London left a profound impact on her. Her extraordinary debut received standing ovations, a testament to her burgeoning talent.
So-hyun strives to understand the historical and emotional contexts of the compositions. She aspires for her performances to evoke shared imaginations and emotions with her audience.
Q: What feelings do you experience when you hear the audience's applause?
A: The applause energizes and inspires me to strive for even greater performances.
Expressing gratitude to So-hyun and her family for the interview, we introduce her performance of Sarasate: Zigeunerweisen, Op. 20, from last year's HeifetzPEG.
