Sydney Li-Jenkins ’28 has been playing the violin since she was three and a half years old, and though she admits she “really hated it at first,” her early reluctance soon gave way to a deep passion that now defines much of her life.
What began as her mother’s wish to fill their home with beautiful music has become a lifelong pursuit for Li-Jenkins–one built on perseverance, emotion, and artistry. Li-Jenkins takes private lessons each week and studies at the San Francisco Conservator of Music’s Pre-College Program, where she spends her Saturdays immersed in classes, rehearsals, and lessons. Her days there often stretch from early morning until evening, but she says the experience has been invaluable.
“It’s definitely a lot,” Li-Jenkins said, “but I get to learn so much from different teachers and other students who are just as passionate about music as I am.”
She finds violinist Augustin Hadelich, who recovered from severe injuries to become one of the world’s top soloists, “really inspiring,” as well as her father, who she says taught her the importance of pursuing one’s passions even when opportunities aren’t easily handed over.
“He always sought them out for himself,” Li-Jenkins said. “I see a lot of that in how I approach my own playing.”
Over the years, Li-Jenkins’ dedication to the violin has led her to perform in numerous recitals and competitions. Most recently, she competed in the national Sphinx Competition in Michigan — a prestigious event dedicated to supporting underrepresented musicians of color.
“Being there and getting to meet so many other musicians from across the country was incredible,” Li-Jenkins said. “Even though I didn’t advance past the semifinals, I learned so much by just preparing for it and hearing everyone else perform. It was such an inspiring experience.”
In addition to solo performances, she plays in a piano trio and has performed with the San Francisco Symphony Youth Orchestra.
“I definitely love solo performances,” Li-Jenkins said, “but chamber music is special because of how connected you have to be with the other players. It’s like a conversation.”
Her practice routine is rigorous; balancing schoolwork, rehearsals, and her social life requires discipline and focus. On weekdays, she typically practices after finishing homework, spending hours refining scales and pieces, and on weekends she dedicates long stretches of time to preparation.
“I’ve grown up with this rhythm,” Li-Jenkins said. “It’s just become part of my life. I fit everything else around the violin, not the other way around.”
Violin isn’t just an instrument — it’s a means of expression to her.
“It’s such a beautiful instrument,” Li-Jenkins said. “When I play, I can convey emotions or thoughts I can’t really put into words. It’s almost like talking to a friend.”
Though she’s still exploring her future, Li-Jenkins hopes to keep violin at the center of her life after high school.
“In the short term, I’d love to go back to the Sphinx Competition and maybe win,” she said with a laugh. “But long term, I definitely want to study something academic in college while continuing with music. I don’t think I could ever really give it up.”
