Hometown:
Yongin, Korea
Education:
Manhattan School of Music, Bachelor of Music (2028)
Bio:
Hyomin Lee is a distinguished flutist currently pursuing a Bachelor of Music at the Manhattan School of Music under the tutelage of Linda Chesis. Her accolades include prizes from the Manhattan School of Music Concerto Competition (all divisions) and the New York International Music Competition. She is a member of the New York Youth Symphony, and she has performed at Carnegie Hall.
What inspired you to become a musician?
My musical journey began unexpectedly during youth orchestra volunteer tours. Performing at nursing homes, I saw firsthand how music brings joy and healing to listeners. These experiences transformed my casual interest into a lifelong mission, inspiring me to pursue flute performance professionally to continue sharing the transformative power of music with the world.
Name your favorite composers and/or pieces:
J.S. Bach is my favorite composer because of the timeless purity of his melodies. As a flutist, I find his works both challenging and incredibly healing. The structured yet emotive nature of his music makes me feel comfortable and relaxed, as if every note is exactly where it should be.
What is an interesting fact about you and/or your instrument?
An interesting fact about my relationship with the flute is that I initially didn’t feel a strong connection to it. However, after seeing how my music brought genuine comfort to elderly residents during volunteer performances, the flute became my ‘voice’ for empathy. Now, I see my instrument not just as a tool for performance, but as a medium for healing and connecting with others.
When taking a break from music-making, what is your favorite thing to do?
I liked to play with my cat Hodu when I was in Korea, but in the dorms, I usually see my favorite K-pop idols or K-dramas and also go out and play with my colleagues.
Why did you choose the NRO?
The National Rerpertory Orchestra was my top priority because of its reputation for intensive professional development. As an international student, the full-tuition scholarship is a significant support that allows me to focus entirely on my artistry. Furthermore, the demanding repertoire and rigorous performance schedule perfectly align with my goal of becoming a resilient, high-level orchestra player. I believe this immersive experience will be a pivotal stepping stone in my transition from a student to a professional musician. Lastly, the opportunity to perform amidst the inspiring beauty of the Rocky Mountains offers a unique environment where nature and music can harmoniously elevate my creative perspective.