This month I had the pleasure of talking with Dr. Suyeon Ko, Assitant Professor of Flute at Kent State University. She is a wonderful flutist and an incredible human being, so this was so much fun. Suyeon did this interview while in Brazil visiting family. Unfortunately, do to technical issues from a buggy update to some software we only ended up with audio despite both of our cameras being on screen for the interview. I am sad that you won’t have the chance to see her infectious smile and welcoming expressions. We did have some great discussions around pursuing goals and, hopefully, our chat, inspired by one of my own students, will be helpful to those beginning their college applications.
Click here to listen to the interview.
Bio:
Dr. Suyeon Ko is a flutist, educator, and performer currently serving as Assistant Professor of Flute at Kent State University and as Second Flute with the Des Moines Metro Opera. Her career brings together solo, chamber, and orchestral performance with a strong commitment to teaching and contemporary music. Originally from South Korea, Dr. Ko began her musical studies there before continuing her education in the United States. She earned a Doctor of Music in Flute Performance from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, where her doctoral research focused on the musical philosophy and compositional style of Korean composer Younghi Pagh-Paan. She also holds a Performer Diploma from Indiana University, a Master of Music degree from the University of North Texas, and a Bachelor of Music degree from Jeju National University in South Korea. Dr. Ko maintains an active performance schedule as an orchestral musician, soloist, and chamber artist. She performs regularly with the Des Moines Metro Opera and has appeared with ensembles including the Erie Philharmonic Orchestra, South Bend Symphony Orchestra, and other regional orchestras. She is a founding member of Volante Winds, a woodwind quintet recognized with national awards and invited to perform at festivals and universities throughout the United States. As an educator, Dr. Ko is deeply engaged in flute pedagogy and mentorship. In addition to her work at Kent State University, she was the founder and Artistic Director of the Flute Academy at the Indiana University Pre-College Division and previously served as Assistant Professor of Music at Western Illinois University. She is frequently invited to present masterclasses, workshops, and recitals at universities, festivals, and professional organizations in the United States and internationally, including engagements in Brazil, Taiwan, and South Korea. She has appeared at major professional conferences such as the National Flute Association Convention, College Music Society, and the Asian Flutist Federation Congress, where she has performed, presented new works, and participated in educational panels. Dr. Ko’s teaching emphasizes sound development, musical curiosity, healthy technique, and thoughtful engagement with both standard and contemporary repertoire. Through her performing, teaching, and scholarly activities, she remains committed to fostering inclusive musical dialogue and supporting the next generation of flutists.