Introducing Classical Guitarist Chulyoung

An interview with Chulyoung Park

Chulyoung has recently joined the faculty at Music Maker Workshops.  Chulyoung teaches Classical, Rock, Pop & Folk.  He's open to teaching all ages and ability levels.

5. CP_Recent Profile

Music is the most precious gift in the world. Don’t doubt the power of music and always be prepared for where music needs to be.

What was your first experience with learning music?

When I was 15, I sold my Playstation 2 to buy a guitar and taught myself. I couldn’t even read the music score, so I paused the music videos every second and mimicked the hand.

1. CP_Teenager guitar

A picture of Chulyoung playing the guitar as a teenager.

As a teenager you were a guitarist for a band. What was your band's name?

The band’s name was B.O.W which came from Michael Jackson’s song Black Or White. We loved to cover American rock bands such as Guns N’ Roses, Skid Row, and Nirvana.

2. CP_Teenager in band

A picture of Chulyoung with his band mates of their band  B.O.W

Who was your most influential teacher?

I can say it is Chung-jin Go. Studying with him was my first proper music education. Chung-jin led me to the classical guitar world. If I hadn’t met him, I would be on a different path than a musician. His mellow tone always inspires me

This is a YouTube video of Chung-jin Go.

What is your favorite piece to play?

I love to play Serenata del Mar by Rex Willis. Since I live in Arizona, it is hard to get a chance to go to the sea. This piece reminds me of my hometown because I grew up near the ocean.

This is a YouTube video of Chulyoung performing Serenata del Mar

How long does it take for you to perfect a piece?

It depends on the work. Some would take a month, but there are many long and difficult pieces in classical music such as concerto or suite. In that case, it would take years.

How often do you practice guitar?

Usually, I practice 2-3 hours a day. I recommend avoiding unbroken practice sessions. Having intervals is very important.

What makes you unique as a teacher?

I try to understand the characteristics of the students. All students have different styles, tastes, habits, and so on. I believe that a good teacher helps students to have their characteristics as their strengths.

What was the biggest difference between studying in South Korea versus in America?

In South Korea, students tend to be shy about expressing their opinion in class. On the other hand, in the United States, discussions are active. I was able to share various points of view with classmates and I learned a lot from the conversations.

Tell us about your education & awards earned with classical guitar?

I completed a Bachelor of Music degree at Kosin University, South Korea.

I was awarded a Master of Music degree in classical guitar performance from Lee University, studied with Charlie Edholm.

I also performed in masterclasses for Rene Izquierdo and Su Meng.

Currently, I’m based in Tempe, Arizona, and continue to study with Jiji Kim, professor of Arizona State University.

For my achievements in performing, I was awarded a grand prize in the adult division at Korea Guitar Association International Guitar Competition and won the Student Concerto Competition at Lee University.

What is the most important message to new students taking on guitar?

The guitar might be the easiest instrument to ‘sound’ but it could be hard to ‘play’. So, learning the guitar is going to be a long journey. Keep your patience and never stop, your guitar will be your best friend.

What do you miss the most about South Korean culture?

The food!

What's your favorite thing about living in Arizona?

Weather, I always wanted to live where there is no winter. Living in Arizona is like a dream come true.

Besides guitar, what else are you passionate about?

I like cooking. I enjoy making new food and handling various ingredients.

Interested in lessons with Chulyoung P?

Please feel free to contact us at the studio to review his availability 480-706-1224.

Or

email us at lessons@mmwaz.com

Or

See the Below online links to register with Chulyoung.