2024 Radda Rise International String Competition
Jin Han
Second Prize
•Cello and Bass Division of Category 3
Jin Han is a 17-year-old cellist from Flower Mound, Texas, who has been passionately dedicated to music since he began playing the cello at the age of 10. Born in Shawnee, Kansas, Jin was introduced to music early on by his mother, a musician who nurtured his and his brothers' musical talents from a young age. Initially exploring the piano and other instruments around the house, Jin eventually gravitated towards the cello, captivated by its rich, expressive sound. His musical journey continued to develop as he studied under the guidance of his teacher, Ko Iwasaki.
Jin’s talent has been recognized through numerous competitions. He won the Grand Prize at the 2024 Collin County Young Artist Concerto Competition and 1st place at the 2023 Dallas Symphonic Festival. Additionally, he earned 3rd place at both the Texas Association for Symphony Orchestra's Juanita Miller Competition and the Chicago International Music Competition's Young Artist II Division. His orchestral debut with the Plano Symphony Orchestra, where he performed Tchaikovsky's Rococo Variations, marks a significant milestone in his emerging career. Jin has also been a finalist in the Lewisville Lake Symphony Concerto Competition and a semi-finalist in the Coltman Chamber Music Competition. He has further refined his skills through masterclasses with renowned musicians such as Max Geisler, Ron Leonard, and Robert DeMaine.
In addition to his solo achievements, Jin is an active member of several ensembles, including the Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra, Flower Mound High School Chamber Orchestra, Gio Quartet, Flower Mound Quintet, and the Han Trio. His dedication to ensemble playing has led to notable performances with the TMEA All-State Orchestra from 2022 to 2024 and participation in festivals such as the Encore Chamber Music Institute and the Montecito International Music Festival.
Beyond his musical achievements, Jin is an active member of his school’s Math Honor Society, the Sunlight Initiative, and the Spikeball Club. In addition to playing the cello, he also enjoys playing the guitar, basketball, soccer, fitness, and taking part in mission trips, where he uses his music to support and inspire others. Jin credits his parents, his inspirational teacher, Ko Iwasaki, and his faith for guiding him on his musical journey and fueling his passion for the cello.