RPO Player Esther Kim playing the violin in rehearsal
© Andy Paradise

First Violin

Korean-born Scottish violinist Esther Kim enjoys a busy career of chamber music and orchestral playing, performing at many venues in the UK and abroad including the Royal Albert, Royal Festival, Cadogan, Wigmore, Suntory, and Carnegie Halls. She was appointed a First Violin of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in 2020 and regularly plays as a guest with the Scottish Chamber, BBC Symphony, London Philharmonic, and London Symphony Orchestras. During her studies in the USA, she was a prize-winner in the George Enescu International Violin Competition and Kocian International Competition, which led to concerto performances with the Palisades Symphony, Culver City Symphony, and Crossroads Chamber Orchestra. In the UK, she has studied with a number of teachers including David Takeno at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. 

In the last year, engagement highlights have included piano trios at the Slovak Philharmonic in Bratislava as well as tours to Germany, Poland, Hungary, Croatia, and Greece with the RPO.


Esther gratefully acknowledges the support of her Chair Patrons, John and Mary Watt.

JOIN THE RPO CLUB
Discover the exclusive benefits enjoyed by our most loyal audience members.
DONATE
Support the RPO on our journey to make orchestral music accessible to all.
SIGN UP
Stay up to date with the latest concerts, news and stories from the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.