An Aussie at The Juilliard School, Wins 2nd Prize at VIFF, Rising Star, Minwu Hu
Born in Melbourne, Australia, Minwu Hu began her flute studies with her father, Qing Hu, before continuing her training with William Bennett and Robert Langevin. A recipient of the Jerome L. Greene Foundation Fellowship, Minwu is continuing her undergraduate degree at The Juilliard School. She has appeared as a soloist at Carnegie Hall, alongside the New York Philharmonic in Lincoln Center and as a soloist with multiple Australian orchestras.
Can you give us a short description of your time at VIFF?
Located on the island of Phu Quoc in the middle of Vietnam’s summer was an absolutely unforgettable experience. I am so grateful to have met so many amazing flutists across the globe as well as interacting and going out on dinner parties with the guest artists! Besides participating in the VIFF Young Artist competition, I also performed in Viviana Guzman’s ensemble, attended Sebastian Jacot’s masterclasses and performed with my quartet at different hotels. Altus and Flute & Flutists had some wonderful flutes to try out too. It was truly such a wonderful experience that will pull you back each year!
What did you love best about VIFF?
The ability to meet and bond with every single person at VIFF was the most memorable part for me. To be able to have friends all across the world and eventually see them again will always be something to look forward to.
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What does your schedule look like for the next 6 months?
For the second half of 2026, I start my final year for my undergraduate degree at Juilliard. Besides curating my recital pieces, hopefully I will learn to pick up a new language. I have a few performances around New York as well as some recordings for my composer friends. I will also be travelling around for orchestra auditions.
How will you prepare for the new school year at Juilliard?
Going into my senior year at Juilliard, it’s important for me to manage the stress that comes with everything, whether it be auditions or another New York weather disaster. Coming back from Orford Musique and VIFF over the summer break, I feel refreshed and ready to challenge myself for this final year!
What do you love most about attending Juilliard?
What I love most about attending Juilliard is the people that I have met along the way. The discussions I’ve had and the knowledge that I’ve gained from everyone, both professors and friends, have definitely opened my eyes to music in so many other ways. To be able to work alongside such distinguished people that have the same passion I have is a privilege I will never take for granted.
Who were your music mentors? And what did you learn from them?
I began studying flute with my dad, Qing Hu, from 7 years old up until college. I was also William Bennett’s private student for 2 years in 2020-2021. I currently study with Robert Langevin at Juilliard. Their dedication and passion towards music will continue to inspire me and keep me just as entangled in music as they are.
What do you like best about performing?
As someone who is slightly more introverted, I find that music is the one way for me to be vulnerable and fully express myself. The performance “jitters” and desire to bring the best out of myself is a feeling that I will always chase after.
What are your goals personally? Professionally?
My goals as a musician is to never stop learning and to continuously inspire both myself and others. To become a soloist and perform with orchestras around the world is the dream. My personal goals are to stay creative, bring joy to the world and have fun!
What inspires you the most in life?
Nature and exploration inspires me the most in life. I love travelling the world and learning something new everyday. They are a nice reminder to keep moving forward.
Can you give us 5 quirky, secret, fun, (don't think too much about this) hobbies or passions?
Besides classical music, I am a huge fan of jazz, rock and techno. New York City is very accommodating to the three so I am always out seeking concerts! I also love animals, you will find me feeding the pigeons and geese flying around the city. I have a pet hamster named Igor! Arts and crafts is another passion I do to keep myself creative, whether it be crocheting my 11th scarf or making chess sets out of clay!
What 3 things would you offer as advice for a young flutist?
One of the most important things about music is listening! Recording yourself and listening back is the easiest way to learn about yourself as a musician. Let the music move you and most importantly, enjoy it! Passion is an emotion that needs expression and what better way than through performance.