Today we’d like to introduce you to Sun Kang.
Hi Sun, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started playing piano when I was four. One of my mom’s friends, who was a piano major, noticed my interest and suggested I start lessons. From then on, music became a big part of my life.
Before auditioning for an arts high school, my parents encouraged me to stop piano and consider becoming a math teacher instead—I was also strong in math. But I didn’t want to give up music. I asked them, “If I get into the school, will you support me?” They agreed, and I passed the entrance exam to Sun Hwa Arts High School, which became a major turning point in my life.
After graduating, I took some time to reflect on my next steps. My grandmother suggested I visit my aunt in New York for a change of scenery. While staying with her, she introduced me to a pianist who had graduated from Juilliard. That teacher completely transformed how I saw music.
Until then, I had been focused only on being the best—playing fast and accurately—but music had become stressful. This teacher saw me as a person first. He helped me rediscover the emotional connection to music and taught me to play with feeling and freedom. It was the first time I truly enjoyed making music again.
That experience inspired me to pursue my musical education in the U.S. I graduated from the Manhattan School of Music with advanced standing and honors, receiving the President’s Award scholarship based on my performance scores. I continued my studies at Mannes College of Music with additional scholarships, and later completed an advanced certificate in music education at NYU, where I also taught as an adjunct faculty member.
I’ve performed across North America, Europe, and Asia, and now I run Edina Piano Studio in Minnesota, where I teach students of all ages and levels.
I feel most alive when I’m performing or teaching—when I can share the joy and healing power of music. I was honored to serve as a judge at the MMTA Piano Contest Finals this year. Watching so many young students pour their hearts and hard work into their performances reminded me of how much passion and potential lives in the next generation.
Throughout my life, I’ve come to realize how deeply a teacher can influence a student’s path—and even change the course of their life. I’ve experienced it firsthand. Because of the care and belief my teachers showed me, I found the courage to keep going and grow. My goal now is to be that kind of teacher for my students: to inspire, to guide, and to be a turning point in their musical and personal journeys.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t always been easy, especially as a mom. I have two young children—ages 5 and 8—and when they were younger, I was a full-time mom. After we moved to a new city, I wasn’t teaching many students and focused entirely on raising my kids. I used to take them to after-school activities like sports and be there for everything.
But as they’ve grown, I’ve started putting more energy into rebuilding my studio—and that’s come with its own challenges. Most of my teaching happens in the afternoons and evenings, which means I’m now working during the time I used to spend with them. I started feeling guilty, like I was missing out or abandoning them for hours each day.
Thankfully, my husband has been incredibly supportive. He’s stepped in to care for the kids and take them to their after-school activities. I’ve also been learning to ask for help from good friends and found a babysitter we trust. I’m still trying to find a better balance, but I remind myself that I’m doing my best in both roles—as a teacher and as a mom—and that it’s okay to ask for help along the way.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Edina Piano Studio?
My business is called Edina Piano Studio, located in Edina, Minnesota. I provide private piano lessons for students of all ages and levels, from beginners to advanced performers. What makes my studio unique is the personal, emotional connection I build with each student. I focus not only on strong technical skills, but also on helping students truly enjoy music and express themselves through it.
My teaching philosophy is simple: I teach every student as if they were my own child. To me, they’re not just students—they’re part of my musical family. I care deeply about their growth, not just as musicians but as individuals, and I aim to create a space where they feel supported, confident, and inspired.
Many of my students participate in MMTA programs and local competitions, and several have earned top honors. I was recently honored to serve as a judge at the MMTA Piano Contest Finals, which gave me an even deeper appreciation for the talent and dedication within our music community.
We also host two recitals each year, each with its own creative theme. Past themes have included a Christmas Candlelight Recital, Mother’s Day Recital, Halloween Costume Recital, and Disney Music Recital. These events give students a chance to perform in a joyful, imaginative atmosphere and help them build confidence while having fun.
I regularly hold conferences with parents to discuss their child’s progress, goals, and areas for improvement. These conversations help us work as a team and ensure that each student receives the support they need both at home and during lessons.
While I primarily teach one-on-one lessons, I’ve added another instructor to the studio to help meet growing demand. I’m also exploring the idea of offering group lessons for siblings, which would give families a more convenient option and allow siblings to learn together in an engaging, collaborative setting. This would also create more availability in my schedule, as I currently have a number of students on a waitlist.
Looking ahead, I hope to grow Edina Piano Studio into a full music school, offering a broader range of programs, teachers, and instruments. My long-term vision is to create a welcoming space where students not only grow musically, but also feel like they’re part of something meaningful.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
One of my favorite childhood memories was when Krystian Zimerman came to Seoul for a piano recital. I admired him deeply—he is one of the most legendary pianists of our time—and I was beyond thrilled to hear him perform live. After the concert, I waited in line for his autograph, and when I asked if I could shake his hand, he kindly said yes. I still remember how soft and warm his hand felt. In that moment, I was filled with inspiration and thought to myself, “I want to become one of the best pianists in the world someday.” That experience had a lasting impact on my passion for music.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.edinapianostudio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edinapianostudio
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091842204011
