Mozart Violin Sonatas

In 1778, during his stay in Paris, Mozart completed six violin and piano sonatas (K.301–K.306), later known as the Paris Sonatas. In these works, violin and piano engage as equals, with music that radiates youthful brilliance, lyrical subtlety, and the elegant charm characteristic of Mozart’s Paris period. These sonatas are not only milestones in his creative journey but also reflections of the composer’s quest for self-discovery in a foreign land.

For violinist Ko Hsu, performing the complete set has been a long-held dream. He had planned to present these six sonatas even before the pandemic, but global events delayed the project. Years later, having settled into a new life and teaching in Christchurch, New Zealand, he is finally realizing this aspiration. Ko earned his master’s degree from Tainan National University of the Arts, double-majoring in Violin Performance and Chamber Music. From an early age, he studied with internationally acclaimed musicians, including Farid Gazizov and Natalia Yukhina (principal violin and Viola of The National Philharmonic Orchestra of Russia). During his training, he also learned from Blair Milton and Clare Takarabe (Chicago Symphony Orchestra musicians), Huang Bin (first prize, Paganini Violin Competition), Hu Nai-Yuan (first prize, Elisabeth Competition), Foo Say Ming (Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, Singapore), Tseng Geng-Yuan (Tchaikovsky Competition “Best Interpretation Award”), and Wang Pei-Yao (resident pianist, Lincoln Center Chamber Music). Like Mozart, Ko’s musical journey transcends borders, exploring identity and belonging through music in new lands and cultures.

Joining him is pianist Cai Wei Chen, a graduate of the National Kaohsiung Normal University, whose studies were distinguished by multiple scholarships and top performance awards. She is active across competitions, choirs, and masterclass collaborations, bringing performances marked by delicate artistry, musical sensitivity, and a strong collaborative spirit.

Together on the Christchurch stage, Ko Hsu and Cai Wei Chen present the complete Paris Sonatas by Mozart. This concert is both a tribute to Mozart and a celebration of the musicians’ shared journey. Through these six sonatas, they aim to convey not only the pure beauty of music but also the courage, patience, and renewal embedded within it.

Violin: Ko Hsu

Piano: Cai Wei Chen

Organizer: Music Star Christchurch

Instrument Sponsors: GFC Foundation Limited, Woodyish Violins & Bows

Website: https://musicstarnz.weebly.com