Nohyoon Kwak
cello
Home country: South Korea
Alma maters: Yonsei University, Indiana University Jacobs School of Music
Photo credit
What is your earliest memory of classical music?
I started learning an instrument at my mother’s suggestion. She wanted me to play an instrument whose range is closest to the human voice, especially the lower register, so she recommended the cello. I still clearly remember going to the instrument shop for the first time to buy a cello. When I held it and drew the bow across the strings for the first time, I was completely absorbed in the sound of the cello. It felt fascinating and exciting. I remember how attractive the instrument was to me.
Was there a teacher who was particularly impactful/helpful? What made this instructor stand out?
Two teachers had the biggest influence on me: Professor Young-Chang Cho at Yonsei University and Professor Eric Kim at Indiana University.
Studying with Professor Cho changed the way I think about music. Before and after meeting him, my attitude toward music was completely different. He helped me understand why I make music and how to approach it, often through philosophical ideas and metaphors. Because of him, I learned how to make my playing more convincing and meaningful.
When I first came to the United States, Professor Eric Kim became my first teacher here. Everything felt unfamiliar and difficult at that time, and he gave me a lot of support. Through his detailed and thoughtful teaching, I felt my playing becoming more solid and mature. He always showed me the right direction to move forward and encouraged me, which I believe helped me reach where I am now, including joining The Orchestra Now.
What made you decide to become a musician? Was there a particular performance or person that influenced your decision?
When I was young, my parents loved classical music. They often showed me videos of various cellists performing. Every time I watched those performances, I wanted to play like them. I think that’s when I started dreaming of becoming a musician.
How did you hear about TŌN? What inspired you to apply?
I heard about TŌN through a friend. I wanted to experience more orchestral repertoire and perform more often, and I felt that this would be a good opportunity to grow and expand my world, so I decided to apply.
How would you like to see orchestra concerts evolve in the future?
I hope orchestra concerts can become a place of healing and rest. In a world where people are constantly chasing what is new and fast, I hope classical music can help people reconnect with something essential and timeless.
Tell us about a time you almost gave up but didn’t.
There are always moments in music when I feel like giving up. Whenever I face a new challenge, I sometimes feel overwhelmed and unsure if I can do it. But I have never actually given up. In a way, every performance includes that feeling, and choosing not to give up each time has been part of my journey. It has helped me grow.
If you weren’t a musician, what would you be doing?
I think I would still be working in the arts. I loved both drawing and music when I was young, and I enjoyed creating things with my hands. If I hadn’t chosen music, I probably would have pursued something related to visual art.
What advice would you give your younger self or anyone starting out?
Don’t give up. Be patient and believe in yourself. There are many difficult and painful moments in music, but if you keep going and trust yourself, there will be a moment when music becomes truly enjoyable and meaningful.
What do you wish you knew starting out that you know now?
I didn’t realize how powerful music is. Through music, I feel that my life has become deeper. Even though I didn’t know it at the time, music has always been part of my life. When I come back to a piece after time has passed, I can feel how much my interpretation has grown. As my music becomes deeper, I realize that life and music are very similar.