About

Beyond being a violinist, , Geunyoung Kim is passionate about teaching in a variety of settings, from private lessons to orchestral coaching. As an MSU String Fellow in 2022-2023, she had the opportunity to connect with and learn from educators in both public schools and colleges. By observing and coaching students at schools across Michigan—including Okemos High School, Chippewa Middle School, St. Johns High School, Waverly High School, and the Grand Rapids Youth Symphony Orchestra—Kim was able to refine her teaching strategies and pedagogy. Weekly meetings, discussions, and feedback from her fellow String Fellows played a key role in her development as an educator. While serving as a substitute teacher at Expressions Music Academy in Novi, MI, Geunyoung Kim also judged the Academy’s North American Music Competition (2022). Her priority as a judge was to encourage students, praise their hard work, and celebrate their progress, helping them truly enjoy performing.

Prior to attending Michigan State University, Kim ran a private studio in South Korea, teaching many students and holding annual recitals. Her students competed in and won several competitions, and many also auditioned for local community and school orchestras. Kim was also invited to speak at Indoeck High School in South Korea, where she gave a lecture on Western classical music—its history, composers, and the music itself. The talk was interactive, giving the audience a chance to connect with the material in a hands-on way.

Geunyoung Kim teaches at St. Paul Catholic School and Spring Vale Christian School in Owosso, where she leads violin and general music classes. Her goal in every lesson is to make music enjoyable while helping students develop their performance skills. At the end of each semester, she organizes music concerts to celebrate the students' progress and boost their confidence. At Spring Vale, she also teaches High School Music Appreciation. The course covers everything from the Middle Ages to 20th-century music and is designed for pre-college students. As a violinist, she often demonstrates pieces to bring the music to life and keep students actively engaged in the learning process.

Kim recognizes the importance of different cultural perspectives on music and works to deepen her understanding of diversity in ways that are meaningful to her students. She embraces the unique identities of each student, taking the time to understand their individual levels and patiently guiding them to grow. No matter where students start, she meets them at their level and helps them improve. Above all, she is passionate about sharing the joy she finds in performing and practicing with her students.