November 12, 2021

Euna Joh is a second year Master’s student majoring in Classical Composition.  She’ll be featured in the MSM Student Composers’ Concert on November 15 at 7:30 in Greenfield Hall.

Euna talks about her experience, why she chose MSM, and her hopes and dreams for the future. 

Please note if attending the concert in person: Presentation of proof of vaccination and i.d. is required. Masks must be worn at all times inside the MSM building

Tell us a little about yourself!

Euna: I was born and raised in Seoul, South Korea and my family and I moved to Maryland when I turned 18. My musical upbringing began at my old church where I sang hymns and other Christian music every Sunday. I started taking piano lessons at age 6 and as a child, playing piano became my favorite thing to do along with reading books. According to my mom, I would always have her listen to me improvising about the book I just read (in retrospect, I am extremely grateful for her patience). Even though I was the only musician (or musician-to-be) in my family, my childhood was filled with music. By the 7th grade, I joined the Seoul Young Musician Academy which is similar to a  Precollege program. The academy was the most amazing place to me because I met so many musicians there and it afforded me many wonderful learning opportunities and concerts.

Tell us about the MSM Student Composers Concert and what it’s like being a part of this concert?

Euna: This concert will have 12 solo and chamber works by wonderful MSM student composers. As a composer, it is always exciting to hear your music brought to life, especially when it is performed by talented musicians such as MSM students. But this concert will be especially special to me, because it will be my first time hearing my music performed live at MSM since the pandemic. I am very excited and grateful to be a part of this concert.

What projects are you working on now?

Euna: I am currently working on my thesis piece for orchestra and a chamber piece commissioned by Tactus. I am thrilled to meet and work with more musicians at MSM in the very near future!

Why did you choose MSM? Which factors were most important to you in the decision process?

Euna: The biggest reason I chose MSM was to study with my teacher, Reiko Fueting, but I also loved the idea of studying in New York City. Even though I didn’t get to have much “city experiences” last year, due to the obvious reason, but thankfully I was still able to be a part of live concerts at Sakura Park, organized by Dr. Fueting. They were such a special experience to me.

What are your hopes and dreams for the future?

Euna: I want to continue making music that is relevant to not only myself, but to ‘real-world audiences’. I hope my music to be relevant to the listeners, including the performers. I believe music can be used as a powerful tool that can raise people’s awareness and shed a light on things that deserve to be noticed and exposed. I would be beyond grateful if my music can be served as a voice that stands up for others and inspires the listeners.

MSM Student Composers’ Concert

Featuring solo works and chamber music by MSM composition students

NOV 15 | MON
7:30 PM EST

Greenfield Hall 

Presentation of proof of vaccination and i.d. is required. Masks must be worn at all times inside the MSM building

Manhattan School of Music
130 Claremont Avenue
New York, New York 10027