Young musician merges her two passions

Rubi Lee was a guest soloist for five concerts with the Pacific Symphony Orchestra over the summer.

Rubi Lee, one of Irvine’s youngest preeminent musicians, performed as a guest violin soloist with the Pacific Symphony Orchestra in five concerts this summer, playing a movement from Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto in Irvine parks and other venues across OC. It was a major step for this rising musician, but only the first in her promising career.

How did you get your start as a musician?

I began playing at age 6 after attending a friend’s violin lesson. I couldn’t even hold the violin properly. But I remember going home and replaying violinists performing “Carmen Fantasy” over and over.

Tell us about the concerto you played this summer.

We moved to Irvine from the Bay Area during the pandemic, and music became an outlet for me. Tchaikovsky’s Concerto resonated with me. There’s a lot of emotional turbulence and complexity throughout the piece. Tchaikovsky was going through depression during that time, and during quarantine, I listened to this piece a lot. It allowed me to express emotions that words couldn’t. Those emotional aspects connected with audiences when I was performing it this summer.

How much time do you devote to music each day?

I practice between four and five hours each weekday and more on weekends. I attend the Pacific Academy in Irvine, which allows me flexibility to study at the Colburn Conservatory of Music in Los Angeles.

How does music enhance your life?

I’ve learned how to express myself and let other people see my true intentions through music. It’s reassuring to see musicians collaborate and uplift one another, creating something beautiful for audiences.

Will you pursue music as a career?

Yes, I plan to pursue a double major in college: music and psychology. I’m interested in music’s beneficial impact on elderly patients struggling with dementia and Alzheimer’s. I want to merge my two passions to create a project that can uplift communities and spread the value of music.

Are there specific things you like about Irvine?

I love the natural surroundings and nearby parks. They are a great place to unwind between concerts and rehearsals. And I love all things Korean – from food to K-pop. My Korean culture is an important part of my life here.

See Pacific Youth Symphony Orchestra at 7 p.m Nov. 18 at Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Tickets are free, but reservations are required. 
Go to pacificsymphony.org for more information.