One World Symphony = Our Artists = Profiles = Jahee Hong

Birth Place:Seoul, South Korea

Education: BA at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

1. Are any of your family members musicians? If so, what do they do?
My mother sings, and my brother conducts, plays piano and violin and composes

2. What has been the highlight of your One World Symphony career to date?
Playing Beethoven's 9th Symphony and Ives' Unanswered Question

3. What would you say is your favourite piece of music?
Anything and everything that has a good part for violas

4. What's the best thing about One World Symphony?
One thing that never fails to be consistent among the musicians in OWS, is that there is a strong sense of camaraderie. Furthermore, OWS musicians play for the love of making music as opposed to earning a paycheck.

...And the worst moment (if any)?
Sometimes, I have to post up flyers on every block in Manhattan and Brooklyn while I'm on vacation visiting my brother.

5. What music do you listen to in the car or subway?
Ranges from Beethoven, Bach, Ives, to U2, Lauryn Hill, Jack Johnson, and Linkin Park.

6. What is your favourite drink?
Mochas and boba teas -- "bobalovesme..."

7. When you do have some free time, how do you relax?
Go for a run, read, listen to music, watch movies

8. Why do you continue to perform with One World Symphony when you can perform with other ensembles that would offer more financial benefits?
The energy level that is exhibited by OWS conductor and musicians are off the charts. If I lived in NYC, without a doubt, would I be involved with OWS on a regular basis. However, I work and have a career in Chicago. When there is an opportunity for me to play, I'm on the plane to NYC!

9. If you weren't a musician what would you be?
I would always want to be involved in music -- whether it be professionally or leisurely.

10. Why would you recommend to other musicians and public to participate with One World Symphony?
OWS is different from other orchestras -- it's much more engaging, educating, and entertaining. The quality of the sound is very impressive -- especially with its signature of only one intense rehearsal per program.

11. What are your hobbies?
Other than playing the viola, I enjoy hanging out at a cafe/bookstore, reading a good book, watching movies, going to concerts, going for a walk in downtown Chicago, and hiking.