The kooky violinist formerly known as Hahn-Bin on what to expect at the Melbourne Festival.

First off, why the name change?

Amadeus Leopold is the name I have chosen for my American citizenship, while Hahn-Bin is my given Korean name. It’s a tribute to the two important “Leopold” figures in my life: Mozart’s brilliant father and also Leopold Auer. For me, without Leopold Auer I don’t think we would have the kind of violin playing we have these days, the kind I strive for every day of my life. I think we are very near that golden era of music; one that is reminiscent of the days when Liszt and Kreisler, Rachmaninov and Mozart himself were the rockstars. My role in this world is to embody the renaissance of classical music itself. It was imperative for me both personally, spiritually and artistically that I make that message clear to the world.

You certainly dress to rival today’s rock and popstars the likes of Lady Gaga. What do your bold costumes bring to classical music performances?

It’s not about make-up or clothing or lighting; it’s about “how do I tell the story behind the story” when playing these...