Aaron Chen '20 Wins Asheville Symphony Competition
Greenie sophomore takes first place with 13-minute cello piece
Aaron Chen '20 practices the cello up to two hours a day, mostly for his own personal satisfaction.
The Christ School sophomore was rewarded for his diligence over Christmas Break.
The Asheville Symphony held its sixth annual Spotlight on Young Musicians competition December 16 and 17 at Central United Methodist Church. Aaron was the first-place winner in the Concerto Division. His 13-minute piece was the first movement of Eduardo Lalo's Concerto in D minor.
For the win, Aaron took home a $300 cash prize and certificate signed by the Asheville Symphony's leadership.
"It makes me feel pretty proud and really excited," Aaron said. "Now that I see I'm capable of doing these things, I want to expand and maybe do more competitions."
During his time here, the Christ School community has gotten several chances to watch Aaron perform in St. Joseph's Chapel. Most recently it was at the 84th annual Lessons & Carols on December 9. Aaron's playing is accompanied by chapel organist Dr. Vance Reese, and the two were together as well for the Asheville Symphony competition.
Aaron hasn't decided what to do with his prize money yet. He said it may go towards maintaining his instrument, which can be expensive. Aaron hopes to progress to statewide competitions in 2018.
