Kelly Talim was born in Japan and started the violin aged 7. Currently a student at the Columbia University in the City of New York and The Juilliard School, she studies under the direction of Li Lin. She previously studied with Cyrus Forough, Carol Sindell and Hae-Jin Kim. As a soloist, she has performed with the Seattle Symphony, Montgomery Symphony, and Oregon Symphony, among others. She has attended the Bowdoin International Music Festival in Brunswick, Maine, as well as the Great Mountains Music Festival and School, Ishikawa Music Festival, The International Holland Music Sessions, and L’Académie Internationale d’Eté de Nice.

“I am so honoured to be a part of the Menuhin Competition. When I was four feet tall and just beginning violin, the Menuhin Competition was one of the first competitions I had heard about. To think that I will be standing on that stage in just a few months is amazing! Competitions offer such an interesting and humbling experience— in the midst of a group of gifted individuals from all over the world, there is so much to learn from and be inspired by. This will be the second time I visit London. As great as the first time was, I’m looking forward to making more cherished memories with great people and great music.” (Kelly Talim)