Today we’d like to introduce you to Jin Ah Kwon.
Hi Jin Ah , so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was born and raised in South Korea, where I began studying piano at a very young age. My passion for music led me to earn both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in piano performance from Seoul National University, Korea’s top university. During this time, I believe I laid a strong foundation to embark on my international career.
My journey brought me to the United States, where I earned my doctoral degree from the University of North Texas and received recognition through several international competition wins. I have released two CD albums, one of which is based on my dissertation focusing on Liszt’s rare editions. Since then, I have performed as a soloist and collaborative pianist across the U.S. and internationally, including appearances at Carnegie Hall, the Tambov Music Theatre in Russia, and the Seoul Arts Center in Korea.
I previously founded and directed the Milal Orchestra until last year, which provided inclusive music education and performance opportunities for students with disabilities. This experience deeply shaped my teaching philosophy and commitment to community outreach.
For the past five years, I have been teaching piano at Tarrant County College (NW campus) and serving as the Executive Director of the Dallas MusiK Society, where I help organize and perform chamber music concerts throughout the DFW area.
In addition to my academic work and public outreach, I run a private piano studio, teaching students of all ages and levels.
Twice a year, my students and I hold music recitals, creating meaningful opportunities to share classical music with everyone in the community. Through these special experiences shared with the audience, we all come to appreciate the uplifting power of music.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
When I studied, like many students in the U.S., balancing both my studies and work was the biggest challenge for me.
When I had competitions and performances, I had to practice almost all day except for meal times.
So, every day after work, I stayed up late to practice, even though I was mentally and physically exhausted.
However, over time I got used to this routine, and now I find that I can only really practice well at night—a kind of “side effect” of my whole life.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I consider my specialty to be editions of musical works. I devoted my entire doctoral study to this field, researching the history and significance of various editions.
This deep understanding has had a very positive impact on creating my own arrangements. I enjoy sharing this knowledge with others—whether through YouTube and social media or in-person performances—connecting with people and spreading appreciation for the music.
I’m currently preparing to publish my own arrangements of classical music.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
When I was 4 years old, I used to play melodies I heard on a portable piano. My parents saw this and decided to enroll me in piano lessons.
As I grew older, I realized that I wanted to become a pianist. For several years, I saved my allowance diligently and finally bought my first piano. Taking a photo with that piano remains one of my happiest memories.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jinahkwon.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jinahkwon_pianist/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/pianowithjinahkwon
Image Credits
Eun Suk Oh- Dr. Kwon’s Piano Studio
