2. Matthew Hakkarainen

He picked up the instrument at age 3, and by 18 became the first American ever to win the prestigious Lipizer International Violin Competition. Matthew Hakkarainen credits his success to the support of his parents and teachers, as well as his exploration of art and literature, which he uses to inspire the feelings he conveys when playing his violin. Hear him perform the Adagio, Sicilienne and Presto movements from Bach’s Sonata Number 1 in G Minor. The 19-year old attends the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, PA, and is a senior competitor in Menuhin Competition Richmond 2021. Visit vpm.org/menuhin for more information on the upcoming competition.