Dressed in a long black gown, Ji Young An mesmerized the audience with her passionate performance as the violin bow controlled and moved her body to every note she played at this week’s concert of the Thursday concert series.
An played five pieces assisted by pianist, and husband, Henry Shin. Together they played Winter from Le Quattro Stagioni, Sonata for piano and violin in e minor by Mozarat, Praeludium and Allegro by Kreisler, Meditation from Thaïs, and Czardas by Monti.
An has been performing as a part of the concert series for approximately four years. She performs once per semester every fall and spring.
Jim Bergman, professor of music appreciation, looks for a variety of people to perform these concerts, professional and student musicians. He was told about An by a violin professor at UCLA and she has been performing twice a year here ever since.
“She’s really good,” Bergman said. “She’s very sensitive. She has amazing musicality, technique, and tone.”
Throughout the performance, An moved her body in a such a way almost giving a visual to the notes she played.
“I can’t help it,” An said. “My body just moves to how I feel. There are people who don’t move when they play but it doesn’t mean they aren’t feeling the music.”
This ongoing concert series has picked up some loyal followers who attend these concerts whenever possible.
“It’s an opportunity to experience different music,” Roberta Boyle, a regular attendant, said. “I like violin music. It’s always a treat to hear. I’ve seen her play twice now.”
The Thursday concert series continues next Thursday Nov. 13 at 12:45 p.m.