harpcolumn

Q and A with Jane Yoo

June 28, 2017

Leading up to the 13th World Harp Congress this July in Hong Kong, we’re talking with performers for the ever-popular WHC Focus on Youth showcase concerts. Check in each week as we present insights from these talented young artists.

Give us some background: when did you start playing, what’s your current age, and who do you study with?

I started playing harp when I was 14 years old, and my current age is 20. I study with Rana Park.

Tell us about your WHC program. How did you choose your repertoire and what do you like about the music?

I chose “Moldau” and Spiders for my WHC program. When I visited Praha, Czech Republic last year, I was impressed by Vltava river, so I chose Moldau, and now this is one of my favorite repertoires. I love melody of this piece. Its melody makes me recalling the moment of traveling Praha.

Which harpist do you most admire?

I admire my professor Rana Park, because she has both good nature and talent.

Which harpist are you most looking forward to meeting in person at the WHC?

I am looking forward to meeting Xavier de Maistre.

What’s the most memorable musical performance you’e ever attended?

My most memorable musical performance I have ever attended is violin recital of Zia Shin. I was very impressed by her performance, because I could feel that she was very proficient at transmitting impression to audiences.

What’s your most memorable performing experience?

My most memorable performing experience is my first solo recital, because it was very hard to prepare seven pieces at the same time, and it was my first recital. I could learn how to control tension on the stage. From this performance, I could develop myself.

What advice would you give a young student wanting to start harp?

I want to say just one thing. Practice is the best way to improve skill.

When you’re not playing the harp what do you like to do?

I usually go to orchestra concert to enlarge my musical experience.

What’s on your playlist?

I have harp and orchestra music.

To learn more about the World Harp Congress visit www.worldharpcongress.org.
To register for the 13th World Harp Congress July 7–13 2017 in Hong Kong, visit www.whc2017.org.

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