Summer 2026
Dear to Each Other Violin Virtuosos Hina & Fiona
Create Harmony Onstage
By Claudia Bauer
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Most collaborations highlight the affinities between artists. But the partnership of sister violinists Hina and Fiona Khuong-Huu is more than that — it’s a lifelong alchemy of opposites.
“We are almost completely different in every way you could name,” says Hina, 21. She and Fiona, 19, “have strikingly different personalities, and we see things in a very different way. When that merges, it’s really fun.”
A self-described extrovert, Hina, who plays the 1722 Stradivarius “Lord Wadsworth” violin, gravitates toward flamboyant solos like Ravel’s Tzigane, which she recorded for the duo’s debut album, Dear to Us, released in November 2025 on Pentatone. The more reserved Fiona, who plays a 1755 Guadagnini, recorded Rohan De Silva’s Poème élégiaque solo, which she chose for its originality and for the way it showcases the deeper, darker tone she draws from her instrument. The sisters made their Festival debut in 2023 as part of the noted Bouchaine Young Artist Series, and the album provides the foundation for their Festival performances in 2026.
“We’ve been playing some of the duets on the album for over ten years,” says Fiona, “and it shows how the pieces have evolved.
For perspective, ten years ago, the sisters were in grade school. Raised in New York City, they each took up violin lessons at age three, and made their debut as a duet at just 7 and 9. From the start, their polar personalities were a collaborative strength — and a challenge. “We had a concert when we were around 11,” Hina recalls, “and we had been arguing all day, even up until being in the wings. But once we get on stage, no matter what, we’re on the same page.”
The bond of sisterhood makes their musical connection unique. “On stage, the level of trust and closeness that we have, and being able to read each other’s micro-expressions, makes such a difference,” says Fiona. “We can anticipate what the other person is feeling in the moment.” It also gives them a strong foundation for pursuing their individual paths. Fiona studies violin at the Cleveland Institute of Music, and Hina trains at Juilliard while pursuing an economics degree at Columbia University.
Distance only makes them appreciate each other more. “We want different things, and we’re not trying to one-up each other. That’s something I’m really thankful for,” Fiona says. “We have a level of love outside of working together, and I want her to succeed,” adds Hina. “We always want what’s best for each other.” Vive la difference.
Bouchaine Young Artist Concert
Sunday, July 12, 2026
11am at Bouchaine Vineyards (admission free)