In 1999, Augustin Hadelich was injured in a fire on his family's farm in Italy, and was airlifted to be treated in Germany. The accident left Hadelich unable to play for over a year. "It is perhaps because of this experience—because I had this moment where I wasn't sure if I would ever play the violin again—that I appreciate what is happening in my life more. I really try to enjoy every moment. It made me realize how important music was to me", Hadelich has commented. After his recovery, Hadelich graduated summa cum laude from the Instituto Mascagni in Livorno, Italy, and successfully auditioned for admission to The Juilliard School.