Hometown:
Syosset, NY
Education:
Gordon College, Bachelor of Music in Music Education and Music Performance, 2022
Cleveland Institute of Music, Master of Music in Cello Performance and Suzuki Pedagogy, 2025
Matthew Rhee, a native of New York, began musical studies at the age of 6 at Queens College through a Suzuki program. He has studied under Julia Bruskin, Brittney Dagro, Marion Feldman, and Rafael Popper-Keizer. In his senior year, Matthew won the Gordon College Concerto Competition 2021-2022 and performed the following year with the Gordon Symphony Orchestra. In his spare time, Matthew enjoys score studying and conducting.
What is something interesting that people may not know about you?
Despite my size, I used to play sports in high school such as football and lacrosse. In college, I enjoyed participating in recreational teams such as soccer and ultimate frisbee.
Name three of your favorite composers:
Igor Stravinsky, Ludwig Van Beethoven, and John Williams
When taking a break from music-making, what is your favorite thing to do?
Outside music-making, I love to cook delicious meals.
What are you most looking forward to this summer with the NRO?
I hope to gain a professional-like orchestral experience this summer with NRO. The intensive rehearsal and concert schedule, as well as working with multiple world-class conductors excites me for this upcoming season. I am also eager to meet and collaborate with fellow musicians from all over.