Getting to Know Our Own: Minnesota Orchestra's Viola Player, Jude Park

Jude Park, a violist with the Minnesota Orchestra since 2022, recently discussed his musical background and experiences. Born in Tampa, Florida, Park initially learned piano from his mother, a pianist. He switched to violin at age four and continued with it until his junior year at Oberlin Conservatory. It was then that a friend introduced him to the viola, an instrument he found unique and versatile.

Park's relationship with the Minnesota Orchestra began before his official appointment in 2022. In 2012, he attended a summer camp at the Interlochen Arts Academy. There, he met Principal Cello Anthony Ross and the late Jorja Fleezanis, both members of the Minnesota Orchestra. Ross performed Elgar’s Cello Concerto at the camp, and Fleezanis taught and lectured on orchestral music. Park found Fleezanis's passion inspiring and it influenced his career choice.

Park has had several memorable concert experiences. He enjoyed performances with Thomas Søndergård, including Walton’s Scapino Overture, Britten’s Violin Concerto, and Elgar's Enigma Variations. He also appreciates the Lunar Year Concerts for their community spirit. He credits Fei Xie, the artistic consultant for these concerts, for his thoughtful programming and artist selection.

In 2022, Park joined the Minnesota Orchestra with three other violists - Lydia Grimes, Marlea Simpson, and Sarah Switzer. Park knew Simpson from Oberlin Conservatory, and he and Switzer were classmates at Rice University. He didn't know Grimes before joining the orchestra, but they have since become close. Park values the camaraderie among the four violists.

Outside of music, Park has an interest in horology. However, his primary passion is the viola, and his experiences with the Minnesota Orchestra are central to his musical identity.

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