Ruiqi Shi, Bassoon
Ruiqi “Ricky” Shi is an ardent and devoted musician whose solos have graced stages around the world. Equally at home with solo and orchestra performances, Ricky was previously based in New York, and has frequently freelanced with New Zealand’s Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra.
During his high school years, Ricky held the principal bassoon position of the Auckland Youth Orchestra from 2016 to 2019. In 2019, he took first prize in the Auckland Youth Orchestra Soloist Competition with the Weber Bassoon Concerto and won the outstanding soloist prize at the Kirk-Burnnand & Brown Music Festival following his performance of Mozart’s Bassoon Concerto.
Following his successful debut solo performance at the University of Auckland School of Music, Ricky’s passion for the stage and connecting with the audiences through the power of music became undeniable. Since then, he earned a Bachelor of Music at The Juilliard School, studying with Judith LeClair. During his studies, Ricky contributed to many ensembles at Juilliard, playing all positions in the Juilliard Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, Wind Orchestra and Opera.
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The facts:
I was born and raised in Beijing, China. My musical journey began with the bassoon at age 10. After I moved to New Zealand, I continued studying with Ben Hoadley, Rachel Guan Ebbett and Ingrid Hagan.
What are you most excited for as you begin your tenure with Artis—Naples?
I am excited about being able to work with professional musicians and getting to learn more repertoire both classical and contemporary.
What inspired you to become a musician?
I was probably inspired by a desire for more knowledge about music and my instrument.
What’s challenging about playing your instrument?
Having solid control over my air and fingers is most challenging.
What are your favorite compositions?
I enjoy Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 and Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8.
What have you been listening to recently?
I’m revisiting Rachmaninoff’s symphonies and piano concerti.
Are there other musicians in your immediate family?
My younger brother played percussion for a while.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I like to keep myself fit, and I do a lot of reading.