A native of Seoul, South Korea, Yebeen Seo joined the Louisville Orchestra in September 2025. After
receiving a violin as a Christmas gift, she became captivated by the instrument and its sound and has
dedicated herself to music ever since.
Yebeen earned her Bachelor of Music degree, summa cum laude, from Ewha Womans University, where she
was the recipient of a full scholarship. She received both a Master of Music and a Master of Musical Arts
from the Yale School of Music, studying with Syoko Aki. She earned her Doctor of Musical Arts degree from
the University of Texas at Austin under Brian Lewis, where she was awarded the Starling Distinguished
Violinist Full Scholarship and served as a teaching assistant.
Yebeen has been a fellow of the Tanglewood Music Center, Aspen Music Festival, and Music Academy of
the West. She has performed with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and was a regular member of the Civic
Orchestra of Chicago.

What do you enjoy most about performing with the Louisville Orchestra?  

What I enjoy most is the sense of collaboration and connection that emerges when we create music
together. As a new member of the Louisville Orchestra, I am excited to explore a wide range of repertoire
and create inspiring performances for our audiences.

In what ways do you think the Louisville Orchestra can make the greatest impact on our community?

I believe music has the power to bring people together and create a sense of belonging. I hope to help build connections within our community through meaningful musical experiences.

What is your favorite type of orchestral music to perform, and why?

I especially enjoy orchestral suites and chamber-like orchestral repertoire, where every section is required to
listen and respond constantly. I love those moments when the orchestra feels almost like one large chamber
ensemble, with subtle communication and shared phrasing creating a unified musical expression.

Do you have a Louisville Orchestra or event that is especially meaningful or memorable?

My first performance with the Louisville Orchestra was the Harmony Tour at Shaker Village. Performing Copland’s Appalachian Spring Suite—one of my longtime favorite works—in the setting connected to the Shaker hymn made the piece come alive in a new way.

What’s something unique, surprising, fun, or interesting about you?

I am a Taekwondo black belt! I started practicing Taekwondo when I was younger, and it has taught me discipline, focus, and perseverance—qualities that continue to shape my musicianship.