Today we’d like to introduce you to Seonghun Jeong
Seonghun, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
At the age of 15, I embarked on my piano journey. Just before turning 16, I found myself deeply immersed in piano music one day, feeling drawn to it as if by some unseen force. Despite starting later compared to others, my passion for music was more fervent. Fortunately, my rapid learning ability and musical talent led me to enter an arts high school after just six months of starting piano. There, I flourished, achieving excellent grades and receiving proper music education. This experience instilled great confidence in me, allowing me to learn and express more through music, ultimately leading me to graduate as an outstanding student from Yonsei University, one of Korea’s top universities. However, my plans to study abroad in the United States were put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leading me to enlist in the military duty instead. During my time there, although unable to continue playing the piano, I had the opportunity to meet diverse people and broaden my horizons by listening to their stories, enriching my perspective. Upon completing my military service, I pursued my dream of studying in the United States, where I strive to enhance and promote my music. Despite starting music later than others, I possess knowledge of aspects that others may overlook. Currently, I am attending the Artist Diploma program at SMU Meadows school of music and I am preparing to win many international competitions here.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My financial situation posed a significant obstacle to pursuing music. Back in my hometown in South Korea, due to the high cost of piano lessons, I could only receive them sparingly. However, I approached these challenges with a positive mindset, using them as opportunities for personal growth. Limited lessons encouraged me to practice and study independently, while practicing outside of my home allowed for greater focus. Starting music late posed another significant challenge, but as mentioned earlier, I embraced my late passion as a driving force. Despite the financial constraints and late start, I chose to focus on self-improvement rather than blaming external factors. This positive mindset and experiences fostered resilience, nurturing my independence and fostering a sense of creativity.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a classical pianist, delving deeper into music from the past and integrating the stories of composers and performers into my interpretations. Unlike jazz or pop musicians, classical pianists interpret pieces written in previous eras, each with their own unique style. In this regard, I excel in creating music that resonates with audiences, using my ability to visualize what I aim to express through my performances. This ability, despite my late start, has brought me to where I am today. I focus on conveying emotions, inviting audiences to share in my story or theirs through my music. While many musicians strive for empathy in their performances, achieving true empathy and visualization requires significant effort. I believe this ability distinguishes me from other pianists.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
To me, personal growth is paramount. I seek diverse opportunities and experiences to enrich my music, develop various skills, and establish myself as a pianist. I do not seek a life of relying solely on luck for success; I believe luck is essential but can only be seized and maintained by the prepared. Focusing not only on musical knowledge but also on understanding human emotions, I aim to become someone who fits into the position I aspire to reach. Thus, what matters most to me now is personal growth, readiness to seize opportunities, and the development of abilities applicable to music.
Pricing:
- 2nd Price – The 4th Weatherford College Piano Competition
- 1st Price – The Music Education News Competition
- 1st Price – The Korean Listz Association Competition
- Winner of SMU Concerto Competition
- 1st Price- Korea international Ensemble Competition.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sh_liam_j?igsh=MWwzNW05MXJpenF3dg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@sh.j5390?si=mL-eiPEmFmSwy_8P
Image Credits
Photo by Seonghun Jeong (myself)
