Our orchestra
Eugene Lee is Associate Leader of Sinfonia Smith Square.
Eugene studied at the University of Auckland in New Zealand to major in Music, before completing his Master’s Degree at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. According to Eugene, “it was during my time at university that I felt like I could do this for the rest of my life. I really enjoyed making music and it’s all I wanted to do.”
We recently sat down with Eugene to ask him a couple of questions about his journey with the orchestra.
What motivated you to join Sinfonia Smith Square originally?
My story with Sinfonia Smith Square cannot start without Simon Over and his ability to trust people. I had just finished a year at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and instead of staying in London, I headed straight back home to New Zealand. I remember wondering if I’d ever come back to the UK. Around Christmas that year, I received a phone call from Simon who had been to visit all the major music centres in New Zealand to develop links with SbS. I had apparently been warmly recommended by the head of music at Auckland School of Music and by my violin teacher and so, after interviewing me over the phone, Simon decided to trust his intuition and invited me to join the programme (it was that same intuition that led Simon to invite me back some years later as Guest Leader). He told me it had a bursary, a year’s worth of work and the chance to play regularly in a set orchestral environment. I don’t remember much more than that, but I liked the sound of what it represented and knew I wanted to be a part of it. So two weeks later, I was on a flight back to London not knowing what glorious things would unfold.
What is your favourite memory from your time in the orchestra?
There are quite a few, but the first time I led the orchestra on Beethoven’s Eroica stands out – the energy and laser-sharp communication was insane!
What have you been up to since completing the Sinfonia Smith Square fellowship?
As the programme was wrapping up, I was asked to join a string quartet. They had formed a few months back and were looking for a 2nd violinist. I gladly accepted, and the next two and a half years brought me both the highest and lowest of musical experiences. I’m really glad I had the opportunity to go through that journey and genre of music making. It has formed a majority of who I am as a musician. Then I threw myself into the orchestral world, and have been a proud member of the Philharmonia since 2015. My first concert was with Andris Nelsons performing Mahler’s Symphony No. 5. It was an incredible way to start my journey with the Philharmonia. I just clicked with the Orchestra’s musical identity and was obsessed with how we played, understood and expressed music. The Philharmonia’s way of adapting yet still preserving its heritage was truly stunning.
How would you describe your work with Sinfonia Smith Square now?
My role within the team is unique. I’m like a coach who also plays with his team. When I started, I was only aware of the playing side of the job but through the years, I quickly realised that I needed to be more than that and provide a special type of guidance through mentorship.
What is it like to work closely with the musicians of Sinfonia Smith Square each year?
I mostly enjoy the energy and the freshness the new fellowship bring each year, but I feel privileged to get to know their life journey and aspirations.
How did your time in the orchestra help you in your achievements since completing the Fellowship?
Spending a year with Sinfonia Smith Square opened me up to many areas of self development. My discipline and confidence was enhanced by the opportunities we were given week by week. I realised that I could influence the people around me and knowing this has helped me so much in being the right person in many different circumstances.
Do you have a message to pass on to Sinfonia Smith Square supporters?
I think of our supporters often, especially nowadays when I can’t see them as much. I wonder how they are and pray they are all okay. My family and I miss seeing them in Anghiari. I want to thank them for their continued support and commitment in our endeavor to make a change for young people. Their belief in Sinfonia Smith Square means so much each year.
