Shi Woo Lee’s search for the sound of his music

Warwick Valley High School senior Shi Lee is always up for a challenge.

Over the past eight years, Shi has honed his clarinet skills through Warwick Valley’s music programs, collecting honors from All-County to All-State. He is a section leader in the wind ensemble and has played in the Senior High All-County Symphonic Band every year since he was a freshman.

This year, Shi earned a place as an alternate in the prestigious All-State Band – a remarkable achievement, as thousands of clarinetists across New York audition and only a select few are accepted or placed on the alternate list. Shi was the only instrumentalist from Warwick Valley to reach this milestone this year.

To celebrate the honor, he will be featured as a soloist on a Clarinet Concerto during the Warwick Valley High School Spring Concert Series, accompanied by the full concert band.

Serendipity

Shi’s clarinet journey began almost by accident. In fifth grade, students are asked to choose a musical path and Shi said he selected the clarinet, really, without much forethought.

“It just happened to be the instrument I picked, and I’ve stuck with it through high school,” he laughed.

One of Shi’s favorite band memories this year has been the way ensemble members rallied to help guide their substitute director during a recent leave by regular WVHS music teacher Megan Shafer. Shi was impressed at how student leadership in the band stepped up to help.

“We had to come together and guide the substitute,” Shi explained. “It was rewarding to see us apply what we’d learned from Ms. Shafer in previous years and put on a good show.”

Shi recalls “Arabian Dances” as one of the most challenging but rewarding pieces of music he’s performed thus far, though nothing compares to the excitement and difficulty of his upcoming solo concerto.

“It’s definitely our hardest yet,” Shi said, “but that’s what makes it so much fun.”

Shafer praised Shi’s dedication and leadership in the band program.

“Shi is always willing to go above and beyond,” she said. “He’s a great clarinet section leader who clearly demonstrates musical concepts and supports his peers with a positive and encouraging attitude. His work ethic and commitment are beyond what you typically see in a high school student.”

Outside of music, Shi finds creative expression in photography. He enjoys film photography, especially on trips to the city. Shi’s visual artwork was featured in this Artist of the Week profile from 2023. While his visual art has taken a slight back seat to music this year, a recent care package from Shi’s cousin filled with film has inspired him to get back behind the lens.

Interest in service was shaped in Boy Scouts

As graduation approaches, Shi is looking ahead to the next chapter. He has applied to several service academies and plans to study mechanical engineering. His interest in service was shaped by his years in Boy Scouts, where he earned the rank of Eagle Scout.

“It’s not just about how to start a fire,” he said. “When I was younger, the older Scouts taught me communication and life skills.”

Don’t be afraid to ask for help

That early mentorship left a lasting impression. Shi is drawn to the discipline and camaraderie of academy life, where students train, study and grow as a team.

“Mechanical engineering will definitely be challenging,” he said. “But knowing I’ll have support makes it less daunting.”

And while his future may be filled with rigorous academics and physical training, Shi isn’t planning to put his clarinet away.

“If I can make it work, I’ll absolutely keep playing,” he said. “It would feel like a waste to stop now.”

Reflecting on his journey, Shi offered a piece of advice for younger students: Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

“There are sources of help everywhere,” he said. “I waited until junior year to start private clarinet lessons, and I regret not doing it sooner. With help, you can always become even better.”