Since joining CYSO in 2019 , Merrill Lee has performed with Debut Orchestra, Concert Orchestra, and Symphony Orchestra as a violinist. This summer, she’ll take the stage with CYSO during the highly anticipated 2025 Tour of Spain. But first, Symphony Orchestra will dazzle audiences at the 2025 CYSO Gala: Spanish Rhapsody. Discover Merrill’s passion for music and her excitement for the upcoming tour in this interview.
How long have you been playing the violin? Do you play any other instruments?
I’ve been playing the violin for nine years, and while violin is my primary instrument, I love to play the piano whenever I can. I played the piano when I was younger, so it’s nice to have two instruments now to turn to when I feel like playing music.
Why did you decide to join CYSO originally? What did you hope to accomplish?
I joined CYSO because I was looking for a space to interact with other musicians and create orchestral music that I always wanted to contribute to when I was younger. I also wanted to be part of a group that could inspire and impact the lives of many others with our work.
What’s an important lesson you’ve learned through your participation—as a musician and beyond?
As a violinist in CYSO, a very important lesson I’ve learned is leadership. By watching other musicians guide the section, I’ve learned what it takes to be a concertmaster. I’ve also fortunately gotten the chance to practice and take on the role of being a leader. For example, cueing in the rest of the section or changing a bowing are just small aspects of the responsibilities I recognize to become a leader. I’m grateful that CYSO has given me the opportunity to practice these skills, such as leadership, which prepare me for my future even outside of the orchestra.
What have been some highlights of your musical journey so far? Do you hope to continue with the violin after high school?
One highlight that I will cherish for the rest of my life is our CYSO tour to Europe in 2022. Performing in possibly the largest concert halls in the world, such as Gewandhaus, really brought into perspective what all our hard work had accomplished. Performing our last concert in the Musikverein was especially emotional because I wished time would stop so I could keep performing Mahler 1 on that stage with CYSO, which has now become one of my favorite pieces. Another unforgettable memory would be debuting with Concert Orchestra, playing the 3rd movement of Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in E minor. I remember towards the end of the piece, I felt this liberating feeling where I knew I played my best. When I was younger, my mom told me that music was something that I could enjoy for the rest of my life, and I think I found this with violin. So, I definitely hope to continue playing the violin after high school. Whether it’s by playing in an orchestra or by joining music clubs, I love that I can communicate with others through music.
I’m grateful that CYSO has given me the opportunity to practice these skills, such as leadership, which prepare me for my future even outside of the orchestra.
How do you feel about performing at the Gala as part of the Symphony Orchestra?
I can’t wait to perform as a member of the Symphony Orchestra at the Gala this year because I want to show the audience the exciting repertoire we’ve been working so hard on. I really love all the pieces we are playing at this Gala, and I think each piece is really energetic and fun to play.
What are you most looking forward to when you participate in the Spain tour?
I am most excited about performing Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5 with the rest of Symphony Orchestra in such beautiful halls. Last tour, there was a feeling of pure joy and exhilaration when playing in some of the world’s largest concert venues so I can’t wait to feel this same excitement in a new country I’ve never visited before. For the Spain Tour, I’m excited to create some unforgettable memories, from making new friendships to learning more about a beautiful country’s popular landmarks and culture. I’m especially looking forward to playing in the Centro Cultural Miguel Delibes hall in Valladolid. I’m sure that this tour will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
To experience the pure exhilaration and joy our students exude on stage, join us at the 2025 CYSO Gala: Spanish Rhapsody on Saturday, February 15. Tickets are available until January 31!
Since I was younger, my mom told me that music was something that I could enjoy for the rest of my life, and I think I found this with violin…I love that I can communicate with others through music.
Merrill Lee, CYSO Symphony Orchestra Violinist
