Division: College, Expanded Education

Department: Faculty, Piano

Instrument: Piano

Wha Kyung Byun was born and educated in Korea, where she won several major competitions and was chosen as one of the most talented young artists in the country. After she made her debut recital at the age of 15, she appeared as soloist with major orchestras and performed throughout her homeland. She graduated from Seoul National University and was awarded the Presidential Gold Medal. Since coming to the United States, Byun studied piano at New England Conservatory with Russell Sherman and chamber music with Rudolf Kolisch. Her playing has been described by the Boston Globe as "rapturous" and "poetic."