Audrey Lee won the Platinum Prize and the Best Max Bruch Performance Special Prize in the Romantic A (Under 17) category of the 2025 Season 1 Max Bruch International Music Competition.
Can you introduce yourself and share how you got into music?
I got into music when I started school orchestra during 3rd grade. The moment I picked up a violin I knew I wanted to play it, and I begged my mom to start lessons. At that time, I’d been doing rhythmic gymnastics competitively, so I thought I’d be a pro athlete when I grew up. However, my passion was so unparalleled that I ended up channeling most of my energy into music, and here I am today still approaching my instrument with the same refreshing vigor I had felt when I first picked up a violin. I am very grateful to all my teachers in shaping me into the player I am, and for enlightening me with various styles of playing and practicing. I am also grateful to my parents who have transported me everywhere, sat through my early lessons, and bought me my various gadgets.
What do you believe defines a great Violinist, and how do you incorporate your unique style into your music?
I think what defines a great violinist is someone who is able to use criticism and feedback to their advantage. Being a great violinist also includes being confident in one's abilities without comparing to others, and being able to express a story on stage without getting stuck on the nitty gritty.
I personally love playing slower Bach and any big concerto with dramatic themes. I love orchestra music as well! Not only is my style of playing shaped by my teachers' input, I also derive inspiration from people I watch. This mainly includes my violinist friends and other musicians, who often do cool things when they play that shape their own expressivity. When I listen to people, I always make a mental note of what I enjoyed about their performance! My observations help me incorporate new ways to make my own interpretations more effective, and I always think about what I can do to bridge the gap between how the piece makes me feel, and how my playing makes others react.
Can you recall a memorable moment from your career that had a significant impact on you?
The most memorable experience of my music career was my summer at Boston University Tanglewood Institute. It was amazing to spend my time around other young musicians who were all really talented and had SUPER fun personalities. I definitely enjoyed a lot of laughs and a lot of music. The nature enjoyed and calories burnt were worth clambering up a hill everyday, and the food was actually really good!