Artist Spotlight: Violinist, Nichole Aye

We've got one last artist spotlight before our debut at The Music Center's Walt Disney Concert Hallthis Saturday, August 3, at 7 p.m.! At “A Summer Symphony With FASO," this young artist will be joining us as a soloist. Meet 11-year-old violinist Nichole Aye!

Nichole and her father.

1. Nichole was born to a Filipina mother and a Myanmar national father.

She's the only one who plays violin in her family, but her dad graduated with a degree in music education. He often accompanies her on piano. And both parents sing in a choir!

2. A neighbor inspired Nichole’s love of the violin.

Nichole kindled her love for the violin while living in Michigan near Andrews University (AU) with her family. Always hearing her neighbor – the concertmaster of the AU orchestra – play next door inspired Nichole to play violin. Nichole currently studies with Aimee Kreston at the prestigious Colburn School.

Nichole Aye with FASO concertmaster Cecilia Cruz.

3. Nichole instantly fell in love with the Walt Disney Concert Hall last year.

It was while watching Itzhak Perlman perform. After the concert, Nichole wished that someday, she would able to play in the renowned concert hall. That wish came true much sooner than she thought!

4. Nichole isn’t a stranger to FASO!

Nichole played a violin duo with our concertmaster, Cecilia Coo on the Loma Linda Broadcasting Network during the holidays last year.

5. Nichole has lots of hobbies!

Nichole enjoys reading, cooking, playing with her younger sister Caitlin, and visiting national parks. Nichole's a Junior Ranger and has collected seven badges so far. After this Saturday's concert, she'll be visiting another national park to add three more badges to her collection.

Nichole Aye with her Junior Ranger badge at Zion National Park.

Watch Nichole tear the Walt Disney Concert Hall stage during her solo this Saturday, Aug. 3, at 7 p.m.! Tickets for “A Summer Symphony with FASO” are available here and are priced at $20, $35, $50, and $60.