Herman
Violinist
Herman is a professional violinist celebrated for his dynamic performances as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestra player. He has graced major Canadian venues, including the Gateway Theatre, Banff Arts Centre, and the Orpheum. A prodigious talent, Herman won the 1997 BC Festival of Arts Strings Competition and was named BC Provincial Champion at just 15. He earned the highest national score on the ARCT violin performance exam at 16. Herman studied under Gwen Thompson, the renowned violinist and string head of the Vancouver Academy of Music. His artistry continues to captivate audiences across Canada and beyond.
Favourite composer: Beethoven
Favourite violinist: Jascha Heifetz
Favourite music: Beethoven Violin Concerto in D
Nina
Cellist
Born into a musical family in Hong Kong, Nina began studying cello and piano at six with her mother, Hon Fong Chai, a distinguished cellist and former professor at the Wuhan Conservatory. As a young musician, she trained with the Hong Kong Youth Orchestra, Diocesan Girls’ School Orchestra, and attended the Hong Kong Youth Music Camp. After moving to Vancouver, Nina earned a Bachelor of Music degree from UBC under cellist Eric Wilson, serving as assistant principal for the UBC Symphony Orchestra. In 2012, she co-founded the Ensemble Affectionato with her violinist husband.
Favourite composer: Tchaikovsky
Favourite cellist: Yo-Yo Ma
Favourite music: Mahlor Symphony No. 5