Student Profile: Hiu Sing Fan, Concerto Competition Winner
A 2025 winner of Northwestern's Concerto Competition, Hiu Sing Fan recently sat down for an interview about his upcoming concert with the Northwestern University Symphony Orchestra. Hiu will be the featured violin soloist on Jean Sibelius's Violin Concerto in D Minor, Op. 47 on Saturday, May 30 at 7:30 p.m. in Pick-Staiger Concert Hall.
How have you grown in your music studies since coming to Northwestern?
Coming to Northwestern has been a deeply meaningful experience for me. Studying with my teacher, Gerardo Ribeiro, as well as learning from mentors such as Sylvia Wang and Desirée Ruhstrat, has been truly transformative. What I’ve appreciated most is the generosity and kindness behind their guidance, which has had a lasting impact on my growth.
What did your rehearsal process look like for this concerto, and how did you approach this piece?
My preparation began with intensive work alongside Professor Ribeiro and my wonderful collaborative pianist, Liangyu Wang. That foundation was essential—not only for the concerto competition, but also in allowing me to approach this project with confidence as I now collaborate with Maestro Schleicher and my friends in the Northwestern University Symphony Orchestra.
Is there anything in particular that the audience should listen for in this piece, or anything that makes this piece unique?
The Sibelius Concerto is one of the most emotionally intense and physically demanding works in the repertoire. Its raw passion and vast expressive range make it a deeply personal journey, and I’m really looking forward to sharing that experience with the audience.
What is something you’re looking forward to in the rest of your time at Bienen or after graduation?
I’m excited to continue growing during my time at Bienen, both as a musician and as a person, and to building a meaningful artistic path beyond graduation.
What's a fun fact about yourself?
Outside of music, I’ve really been enjoying playing tennis. My tennis partner, Wilson—who was previously a music student at Bienen—shares that grind with me. While some (including my parents!) might think it’s not ideal for violinists, I find it both therapeutic and energizing.