There are some people who have prominently changed my life. I thank my little sister for introducing me to the world of siblinghood. My 4th-grade teacher also had a huge impact on me because he motivated me to have a great passion for studying and working hard. But I must say, my mother has had the most significant influence on me because she has instilled in me an appreciation of music from an early age.
My mother was born in Korea and moved to the States by herself to study at the Juilliard School when she was only 15. She is a professional violinist for NYCB orchestra at Lincoln Center now. I feel lucky to have someone so determined and goal-oriented in my life. There is no question that my mother was the beginning point to my fascination with music.
As NY city has many options to listen to different types of music, I enjoy going to concerts, ballets, and operas with my mother. I also love listening to WQXR Classical Music Radio Station while I get ready for bed, as it helps me to unwind and prepare for the next day. Music really has become an essential part of my life.
When I was younger, I didn’t have the big affection for the music that I have now. I started learning the piano when I was four but didn’t quite like the practice part. My mother who had a musical background for so long knew it takes more than just talent to advance. It takes hard work and effort, in my mother’s words, million hours and more of practicing. She used to get up at 5:00 am to have an early morning practice before school and continued practicing when she came home until 10:00 pm. She said no one forced her to do it, she did it because she really enjoyed doing it. Since my mother always wanted me to explore my interests and see which grows into my true passion, she let me quit the piano and convinced me to move onto singing in the children’s chorus. It was such an excitement to sing in a large group of people and have no more pressure from practicing. From that moment on, I have been part of the school chorus. Last year, I had some unforgettable experiences, as we performed at schools for kids with disabilities and senior centers. I was also chosen to sing solo at the winter concert. My parents were so proud to hear my solo voice and choked their tears back as they congratulated me.
I would have never found my love for the music if it hadn’t been for my mother. She and her colleagues often have a chamber music gathering at our house and I really enjoy listening to them. I recently started learning the guitar and look forward to joining my mother’s chamber group one day. I am thankful that I have someone so special in my life.
