Haowen Sun (MM ’25, Instrumental and Chamber Music Studies, viola) came to Tianjin Juilliard on a full scholarship after earning a bachelor’s degree in music performance from Renmin University of China in 2023. At Tianjin Juilliard, he studied under resident faculty violists Honggang Li and Hanna Lee. Last December, Haowen took the next step in his career when he was named Principal Viola of the Xi’an Symphony Orchestra. His transition from student to professional orchestral musician has brought new experiences, broader perspectives, and a deeper understanding of artistic growth.
Looking back on his time at Tianjin Juilliard, Haowen shared the experiences that shaped him, the opportunities he embraced, and the insights he gained along the way.
You’ve been with the Xi’an Symphony Orchestra for more than half a year now. How’s your life in Xi'an?
Since joining the orchestra in December 2025, my affection for Xi’an has been steadily growing. What captivates me most about the city is the contrast between its profound historical legacy and the vibrant everyday local life.
The most wonderful surprise is that Xi’an Concert Hall sits right in the heart of the Datang Everbright City, a major tourist attraction. When I step out after an evening performance, I’m greeted by dazzling Tang-style architecture and lively crowds singing and dancing along the streets. Making music in such a distinctive city is an absolute joy!
What was the most important thing you learned during your two years at Tianjin Juilliard?
The most valuable lesson I learned was developing an ensemble mindset. At Tianjin Juilliard, I had countless opportunities to collaborate with world-class conductors and artists, and I gradually mastered the art of ensemble playing through daily rehearsals with faculty and peers. The highly professional, intensive orchestra training didn’t just refine my playing technique; it also strengthened my communication skills and my ability to adapt quickly within a group. These skills have helped me settle into the orchestra quickly and handle both regular rehearsals and last-minute performances with confidence.
If you could go back to your days at Tianjin Juilliard, what would you do differently, and why?
Frankly, I was already working about as hard as I could back then. If I can do it again, what I’d really do is take every single elective course the school offers and make the most of every learning opportunity the curriculum offers. I’ve even thought about studying another instrument or pursuing a different major, to broaden my perspective beyond viola performance. Now that I’m working professionally, I’ve come to see that the breadth of musical understanding can take you much further than sheer technical depth alone.
Do you have any advice for students considering applying to Tianjin Juilliard’s graduate programs?
For Chinese students, we are famously dedicated to mastering the fundamentals, and that’s our “superpower.” But the further you go into your career, the more you’ll find that going alone only takes you so far. Collaboration skills will keep you going strong.
Tianjin Juilliard’s program is heavily geared toward professional orchestra and chamber music training. It offers an intensive training environment for aspiring musicians. So don’t wait for opportunities to come to you. Hold yourself to high standards but be proactive about chasing every chance to learn and perform. Then, play your strengths and roll with rhythm. You will build a solid foundation for a strong professional start after graduation.
Photo credit: Twan Vision