About Helena Hyesoo Kim

Dr. Helena Hyesoo Kim, a Korean-Canadian pianist recognized for her sensitive and noble playing, has performed at various venues across the Netherlands, France, Russia, Spain, Korea, Canada, and the United States, including venues like Carnegie Hall (Stern Auditorium) and Severance Hall. 

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Kim actively collaborates with various musicians including Su-Mi Cho (soprano), Jens Lindemann (trumpet), Curtis Pavey (piano duo), Christopher Pell (clarinetist), Chris Blaha (tuba), and Todd Gaffke (saxophone). She has also served as a collaborative pianist at the College-Conservatory of Music, Northern Kentucky University, and at the University of Akron where she held the position of Coordinator of Collaborative Piano.

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 Kim received her musical training from Yewon Art School and the Saint-Petersburg Pre-Conservatory. She then pursued further education at the University of British Columbia (BSc & BMus), McGill University (MMus), and the University of Cincinnati (DMA).

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Kim advocates for the works of underrepresented composers, with a particular focus on female composers such as Caroline KyungA Ahn, Alexina Louie, Sofia Gubaidulina, and Galina Ustvolskaya. Her DMA research revealed unique unifying elements in Galina Ustvolskaya's piano sonatas, works that were marginalized because of repression by the Soviet government. 

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As an educator, Kim has taught diverse groups of piano students in both private and group settings. She has presented at state and national conferences and produced an online teaching video for the Frances Clark Center’s Inspiring Artistry series. In Spring 2024, she is teaching at St. Charles Community College in St. Louis, MO, and at the University of Missouri.