Senior Spotlight: Ryan Lee, viola

What AYPO ensembles have you played in and for how long?

AYSE, AYCO, AYSO, AYPO (7th grade through 12th grade)

A funny, favorite, or memorable AYPO experience?

One of my most memorable AYPO experiences was being able to attend the side-by-side rehearsal with the NSO. We were rehearsing Schumann Symphony No. 3 and it made me appreciate the piece on a completely different level.

What musician inspires you and why?

I really love Ray Chen. He is so passionate about his music and balances that with a really great personality. His performances are so exhilarating and the expression he fosters into each note is truly mind-blowing.

Your advice for young musicians?

I would say to become involved in not only orchestra but also chamber music. I love playing orchestral music but I really believe that chamber music is where so much musical maturity and personal development occurs.

What do you hope to do after graduation?

I hope to attend graduate school, maybe enter a pre-law track and continue music for as long as I can. I hope to find opportunities with local orchestras and join more chamber music groups!