Seohyun of Girls' Generation Makes Violinist Debut... Performing 'Czardas' with the Solo Philharmonic Orchestra at Lotte Concert Hall in March

Seohyun (35), a former member of Girls' Generation and currently an actress, is taking on a new challenge as a violinist. Seohyun will perform as a violin soloist at the 8th regular concert of the Solo Philharmonic Orchestra, which will be held at Lotte Concert Hall in Seoul on March 13.

This concert marks Seohyun's first official stage performance about seven months after she began learning the violin in August of last year, drawing attention from the music industry and fans alike.

In an interview on the 2nd, Seohyun stated, "Rather than the perfection of a professional performer, I want to show the pure passion of someone who truly enjoys music," adding, "I hope that through my challenge, many people can feel closer to classical music and discover new joys."

Seohyun's love for classical music began in her childhood. Growing up with a mother who ran a piano academy, she naturally came into contact with classical music and even dreamed of becoming a pianist at one point, making classical music a constant presence in her life.

"I have been a workaholic who has only looked ahead, but suddenly I asked myself when I was truly happy while reflecting on my life outside of work," she said. "The answer was ultimately returning to classical music."

After starting to learn the piano again, Seohyun also rekindled her interest in the violin, which she had practiced for four years during elementary school. With a desire to improve, she set a goal of performing at a concert and took on the challenge.

Seohyun explained, "As I picked up the violin again after 20 years, I approached it with the mindset of starting from scratch, gradually mastering the basics. During that time, I was offered stage experience, and I felt that having a clear goal would motivate me to work harder, so I gathered my courage."

Once the debut stage was set, the pressure was significant. "Thinking about the weight of the stage brings worries and fears, but I also think about how rare such a precious opportunity is, so instead of hesitating, I am preparing with the mindset of practicing more and facing the challenge," she shared.

The piece Seohyun will perform is 'Czardas' by Vittorio Monti. It is an orchestral concerto that is not easy even for soloist performers, and it has always been a dream piece and ultimate goal for Seohyun.

She stated, "Since I started this challenge, I wanted to take on a proper challenge with the piece I love the most. I had always vaguely thought that I wanted to challenge it someday, and my violin teacher believed in me and encouraged me greatly."

While she is currently focused on preparing for the upcoming performance, she also has ambitions for new challenges. "There are so many pieces I want to challenge, but for now, I want to focus on solidifying my basics. However, I really love Bruch and Tchaikovsky's violin concertos, so I hope to challenge at least one movement someday," she said.

As for violin pieces she would recommend to her fans, she chose Paganini's 'Violin Concerto No. 1'. She explained, "This piece beautifully showcases how splendidly and dramatically the violin can be played, giving the feeling that the protagonist on stage is singing and whispering, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display at the end."

Having dedicated herself to practicing the violin for six months now, Seohyun says she has become even more enamored with its 'honesty' as she plays.

"The violin resembles the human voice a lot and is a very sensitive instrument. Therefore, the process of understanding and getting to know each other is essential. The sound varies greatly depending on the subtle pressure, speed, and angle of the bow, so I have to concentrate all my nerves on it."

"Playing the violin is like soothing a baby; I must fully focus on the condition of the instrument. In the delicate process of interaction, I try to awaken and feel all my senses," she added.