Yeonkyung is absolutely wonderful! She is prepared for every session, easily adjusts course (speeding up the material or slowing it down) when needed, and communicates all information perfectly! I started piano as an adult, unsure if I’d be able to learn or if I would enjoy it, but because of Yeonkyung’s teaching and joyful personality, I am inspired to continue practicing for many years to come. Her sessions are truly one of the best parts of every week, and my husband even says that he loves listening to how much I am progressing as well as watching how much fun I’m having!
-Skylar

Miss Kim is a lovely piano teacher. She is knowledgeable, patient, and encouraging. She communicates her expectations well, and provides positive feedback to your seven-year-old student. Her approach extends to having students listen to classical music and making observations about it; writing musical symbols and notes; and being creative on their own. From the student herself: “Miss Kim is really nice. She is really good at playing and really good at teaching.”
-Kathryn

YK is incredibly easy to work with. Although I only had the pleasure to work with her once, she pushed me to be a better musician throughout our entire collaboration.
-Drake

From the first time I ever rehearsed with her Yeon-Kyung has been both an amazing piano player and genuinely one of the nicest people I have known. Every encounter always is met with the atmosphere of ease and lack of stress when it comes to working on complicated pieces. She has made a huge impact here at WIU through her various collaborations with the bands, orchestras, and choirs always amplifying the performances. We as a student body always have positive things to say about YK. She will be dearly missed in the coming semesters.
-Anonymous

Dr. YK was a phenomenal coach for our quintet. She provided valuable insight and criticism that led us to a beautiful performance. I would highly recommend her!
-Renee

Yeon-kyung Kim is a diligent pianist. I have had the pleasure of collaborating with her multiple times, and each time has always been a great experience. Whether it is practicing a solo tuba concerto with her, or listening to her perform a recital, it is clear that YK is a professional in her craft! Any organization or client that has the opportunity to involve YK with their work would be fortunate to have her.
-Joe

YK is an absolute joy to work with. I had the pleasure of working with her through WIU while I was in private voice lessons and she was a collaborative pianist. In private lessons and rehearsals she always offered valuable feedback and pushed me to perform at a more advanced level. She is kind and supportive, while still having high standards for everyone she works with. Her musicality and passion for performing shines through no matter the setting. YK is immensely knowledgeable of her craft and we will certainly miss her at WIU.
-Alex

Dr. Kim has been one of the most wonderful collaborators I have had the privilege to work with during my time at Western Illinois University. After a semester with her as my collaborative pianist, we discussed my interest in exploring repertoire, and it was then my absolute pleasure to begin working on my first Korean Art Song with Dr. Kim. She not only was a dedicated and hardworking pianist– but a superb diction coach, providing me lessons and context of history, deep poetic meanings and connections, and the utmost patience and kindness during the learning process. It was such a joy to know and work with Dr. Kim, and I hope more students appreciate and explore the beautiful music she introduced here at Western!
-Eden

Dr. YK is such a kind-hearted, dedicated, and talented individual who has helped me to grow so much as a musician and overall person. She brought all kinds of musical expression out of me that I didn’t know I had! She holds such high standards for herself and her collaborators and knows how to lead a productive rehearsal. I always feel comfortable rehearsing and performing with YK in the professional yet personal environment that she provides. She truly is the best of the best!
-Bryar