Holly Hyun Choi (33) has been selected as the first Korean-American “Dudamel Fellow” conductor for the LA Philharmonic.
The Dudamel Fellowship Program is designed to nurture the next generation of conductors. Over the next year, Choi will participate in various activities with the LA Philharmonic.
Choi, born in South Korea, immigrated to LA at the age of 10 and taught herself to play the clarinet at 13, marking her entry into the music world. She has since conducted various orchestras and chamber ensembles across Europe, based primarily in Germany.
In September 2020, Choi gained recognition by being selected as one of the final six contestants in the “La Maestra” conductor competition held in Paris. She has also served as assistant conductor for the Tonhalle Orchestra in Switzerland and is currently the principal conductor of the German chamber orchestra “Ensemble Reflektor.”
Choi expressed that conducting an orchestra in her hometown of LA through this opportunity is a particularly special experience. Her official debut with the LA Philharmonic is scheduled for May next year at the Walt Disney Concert Hall.
Reflecting on her journey, Choi said, “I started music later than other musicians, but I worked harder to become a proud Korean-American musician. I look forward to the day I can perform in Korea.”
BY JOONHO CHOI, YOUNGNAM KIM [choi.joonho1@koreadaily.com]
