Kim's Must-Hear Rising Artists in Classical Music

Even as a little girl growing up outside of Atlanta, Georgia, classical music has been all around me since an early age. I started dancing at the age of 3 years old and the sounds of “Swan Lake” or the notes from the “Sugar Plum Fairy” from the Nutcracker were etched in my mind. My love for ballet was found and the music helped to develop my mind and taste.

My sister was a pretty good violinist and would practice constantly at home. I also grew up in a household where Columbia Music CD membership was a thing. If you know, you know! A monthly small square box delivered to our house sharing so many different genres of music that allowed me to discover a world beyond my current location.

As I grew older, I developed an even greater appreciation for classical music. The notes can either soothe me and allow me to transport into a different place and time while taking a long bath. As a storyteller, it also allows me to use my creative mind and visualize the music as choreography. I also enjoy nights at the symphony. I share my love for classical music with my children in hopes it will stimulate them. I play it often from the time they were in the womb to car rides and even to settle down before a nap.

I love that classical transcends cultures. It’s been great to continue to see strings incorporated into genres of music like hip hop and R&B. Most recently, the Atlanta Symphony teaming up with rappers, Gucci Mane, TI and Jeezy was epic.

I’m also interested in watching new talent emerge. May this curated list of groundbreaking artists reshaping the landscape of classical music inspire you to embark on your own journey of exploration in the classical realm.

Check out some of my favorite rising classical musicians to watch below: