Ria Kang, 8-year-old violinist from NJ, wins big at international competition
TENAFLY, New Jersey (WABC) -- The violin has been Ria Kang's passion since she began playing at just four years old.
"I love violin because I can touch people's heart with the beauty of music and communicate with them," the now 8-year-old said.
Kang graced the stage at Carnegie Hall for the first time when she was just six.
"It was nerve wracking. I cried. She played wonderfully," Kang's parents, Justin and Nicole, said.
The third grader from Tenafly is collecting quite a display of first place awards and certificates. She is making a name for herself across the Atlantic.
Earlier this month, Kang took top honors in a prestigious international violin competition at the Royal Conservatory in Brussels, Belgium.
"It was my first professional orchestra experience. It was amazing," Kang said.
With an orchestra behind her and a huge audience in front of her, the judges had discriminating ears for perfection.
"The stage was really beautiful so I just wanted to play my heart out," Kang said.
She won in the 11 and under age category.
"It's amazing to see her play on stage in front of all those people," her parents said. "I don't think it's anything that we would be able to do.
What is her biggest goal and dream?
"I really want to become a great violinist," the young girl said.
Kang may well be on her way.
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