Yeeseon Kwon

Yeeseon Kwon, Piano Faculty

Preferred student age: Any

Preferred student level: Any

What do you want to impart to your students through your teaching?
I desire my students to be life-long learners of music by learning how to problem solve and think critically, and most importantly, experience the joy of making music.

Are there specific methods or techniques that you use in your teaching that may be important to share with prospective students?
While playing the piano with technical and musical excellence is important, practicing effectively to meet this goal is even more critical. Teaching students how to practice is a big part of my pedagogical approach. I also try to demonstrate creative ways of learning that match each student’s strengths at each level of musicianship and ability.

What do you enjoy most about teaching?
Each student’s progress toward beautiful expression and musical excellence that will in turn, foster a passion for the musical arts.

Briefly describe your musical pursuits outside Sherwood.
I am on faculty at Harper College and enjoy performing solo and collaborative music whenever opportunities arise. I also find joy in music ministry and adjudicating for various piano competitions and festivals. Presently I am 1st Vice President of Illinois State Music Teachers Association and writer/new music reviewer for Clavier.

What is your earliest musical experience or memory?
Music captivated me from an early age with its colors and sounds. I fondly recall playing the piano with so much focus and enjoyment that I lost track of time.

Please describe one of your favorite teachers or mentors.
My favorite teachers and mentors all shared a passion for music and life. They connected their life experiences with the creative aspects of making music. They shaped my love for teaching and taught me how people can relate to the world through music.

Who is your favorite composer, or what is your favorite musical period?
I enjoy a wide variety of composers and musical styles from Baroque to contemporary avant-garde styles, as well as pop/jazz music. It’s a thrill to be in the same space while music is being created and one of reasons why I love hearing live music, especially opera.