Get to know Esther Yoo

You’ve performed and recorded with the Philharmonia many times over the past 10 years or so – what is it about the Orchestra that keeps you coming back?

The Philharmonia Orchestra has a very special place in my heart as I had the privilege to first perform with the Orchestra when I was 16, under the baton of the late Lorin Maazel, and our relationship has flourished since then. My orchestral debut in London was with the Philharmonia, as was my very first tour experience and first album, so I associate many milestones with the Orchestra. Every time I return to the Philharmonia it feels like returning to family because we know each other well, we have a long history, and it’s always an immense pleasure to see the members and to experience their distinct artistry again.

You’ve played at all our UK residency venues, and toured with us in Europe, Asia and South America. Do you have a favourite Philharmonia moment, either on stage or behind the scenes?

It’s tough to pick a favourite as each tour and project was special in a different way, and they took place at different phases of my musical journey. The memories of making two albums for Deutsche Grammophon with Vladimir Ashkenazy are the most prominent because of the intensity of recording and the whole process of spending a lot of time together.

What’s your favourite city in which to perform?

London and Seoul are very dear to me!

Prokofiev’s Violin Concerto was composed just before Russia’s October Revolution of 1917. Do you find it helpful to research the historical and social context for a piece of music when you’re preparing for a performance, or do you prefer to focus solely on the score?

It’s always helpful to have some context of how a piece came to life. This Concerto reflects the beginnings of Prokofiev’s exposure to the West, new environments and cultures, and also the fact that he was in love. Although Prokofiev is not most appreciated for his lyricism, his ability to create beautiful lines shines in this Concerto. He was particularly proud of the lyrical aspects of this work and would often quote the opening of the first movement as part of his autograph.

What’s your favourite passage in this work?

I find the opening particularly magical. There is so much fantasy in this piece and the way the strings begin with a shimmering quality and the violin solo glides above and leads us into this dream-like, fantastical world is quite breathtaking.

Which concert in our 2023/24 season catches your eye, and why?

I would love to hear Julia Bullock’s performance on 23 November as she is an artist I admire greatly and have become acquainted with online, but have not yet met or heard in person!

“Every time I return to the Philharmonia it feels like returning to family”