Yujun (June) Yao, was selected to be the concertmaster of the Louisiana Music Educators Association All-State Orchestra which convened in New Orleans over the Martin Luther King Jr. weekend.
“Being the concertmaster of the All-State Orchestra was the culmination of every tireless hour of practice I have dedicated to my violin. It is an incredible honor to lead such a talented ensemble and turn all my hard work into a performance the audience could enjoy and appreciate.” – Yujun Yao, NCHS sophomore
Under the direction of Dr. Gene Moon, Director of Orchestral Studies at California Baptist University, June led an ensemble comprised of over one hundred of the best string and wind players in the state.
“Being selected as concertmaster of the All-State Orchestra is very prestigious for high-school violinists in our state. It is the first time this century that a Natchitoches Central student has been awarded this position, and it might be the first time ever. “ -Lincoln Hall, NCHS Orchestra Director
Originally self-taught, June learned how to play by imitating violinists on YouTube. Her formal violin instruction began in the NSU Middle Lab School Orchestra and continues in the Natchitoches Central High School Orchestra.
“June joined the NSU Middle Lab Orchestra in the 7th grade, displaying advanced techniques beyond her age level. Her ability inspired her peers to work harder. She was one of the most dedicated students in the ensemble.” -Katrice LaCour, NSU Middle Lab Orchestra Director
Since becoming a high school student, June has also studied privately with Northwestern State University violin professor, Dr. Andrej Kurti.
“June is very talented, both technically and musically. She has a strong desire to explore and improve her abilities. She is very pleasant to work with and has a bright future awaiting.” -Dr. Andrej Kurti, Professor of Violin, NSU
June’s story is not only a testament to hard work and dedication, but also to courage and resiliency when confronted with adversity. Her father, Bingkun Yao, unexpectedly passed away in January 2025 when June was playing in last year’s All-State Orchestra, where she earned the assistant concertmaster position as a freshman. June left the ensemble on its first day of rehearsal to be with her family.
One year later, she returned to the All-State Orchestra and earned the most respected seat in the ensemble.
