My name is Christine Ham, and I’m a 14-year-old violist with a deep passion for music. I started playing piano at the age of four and continued for seven years. In 4th grade, I picked up the viola — and that’s when music became something even more personal and meaningful to me.
Learning piano gave me a strong foundation in reading music, technique, and expression. But when I began playing viola, I discovered how much I loved being part of an ensemble and making music with others. The warm tone of the viola felt like the perfect fit for me.
Since 6th grade, I’ve been a proud member of the Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra (GDYO), an experience that has helped me grow tremendously as a musician. Being surrounded by talented peers and performing advanced repertoire has pushed me to improve and inspired me to take music more seriously. Rehearsals, sectionals, and concerts have taught me responsibility, teamwork, and confidence on stage.
There have been challenges along the way — tough music, long practices, and moments of doubt — but every step has made me stronger. I’ve learned that music is about more than just playing the right notes; it’s about expressing something beyond words and connecting with others through sound.
Right now, I continue to study viola and explore new styles. I hope to keep improving, take on leadership roles in my orchestra, and maybe even pursue music in college. No matter where life takes me, music will always be part of who I am.
Watch Christine Gahyun Ham perform Sonate by Schubert on the viola for the 19th Century Music Competition 2025 as part of the Charleston International Music Competition.