Sharon Zhou
Violin | 2023 Julius Isserlis Scholarship
A note from Sharon
Since curiosity is a key part of my musicianship, I was keen on the prospect of studying abroad. Having been inspired by Beethoven, Mahler and Kreisler, to name a few, I always wanted to go to Vienna to experience its musical heritage. This is why I chose to apply for an exchange programme to the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna, taking place in the autumn term.
With this exchange, I hope to improve my craft through the guidance of world-class pedagogues. By attending concerts, cultural events and meeting new people, my aim is to expand my creativity and widen my musical horizons. In addition, I hope to build upon my interest in German through day-to-day conversation. Undoubtedly, this scholarship will help me to make the most of these opportunities and embark on a fruitful journey abroad.
I am truly grateful to be a recipient of the RPS Julius Isserlis Scholarship and it is an absolute privilege to join such an inspiring society. Thank you RPS for supporting the next step of my artistic development!
Biography
Sharon is a violinist studying her undergraduate degree at the Royal College of Music under the tutelage of Professor Detlef Hahn. Since the start of her musical journey, she has given many concerts as a soloist, chamber and orchestral musician in the UK and abroad, including Austria, Hungary, Norway and Switzerland. When she was 14, Sharon made her concerto debut with Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto and is regularly invited as a guest soloist to perform with a range of British orchestras.
From a young age, she has participated in several international masterclasses, gaining insight from some of the most renowned musicians at Astona International, Valdres Sommer Symphoni, Verão Classico, Internationale Sommerakademie Mozarteum Salzburg, alongside others. At the 34th Eastbourne Young Soloist Competition, she was awarded the St Cecilia’s Bequest, for the best performer under 18, alongside the Colonel Howes Prize and has been selected for several national and international competitions. With a love for orchestral music, Sharon currently undertakes conducting studies with Toby Purser and aspires to become a conductor as well as pursue a solo performing career.