By Kate Kellen, ’08

When Christina Kwon started playing the piano six years ago, she didn’t know it would lead to a lifetime of music. Now at the University of West Florida, Kwon is majoring in piano performance. Her passion for music stems from the belief that the arts are a language which allow us to communicate.

“Artists can express their ideas, beliefs, attitudes and emotions through many different forms,” said Kwon. “The arts affect us – they can rouse emotions and demand reactions from us or simply entertain us. Without the arts, mankind would be mute.”

Discipline, passion and authenticity are qualities Kwon claims to be the most important in becoming a successful pianist. She credits UWF for helping her develop these qualities, as well as giving her a starting point to reach her dreams.

“UWF is where I made the most important decision of my life as a young adult,” said Kwon. “I dedicated myself to specialize in the field that I have chosen, and this choice outlined my educational goals and future career path. UWF is where the exciting training process started.”

UWF provides Kwon with the unique opportunity to train on Steinway pianos. The university recently received the prestigious designation of “All-Steinway School.” Steinway is known throughout the world for its high standard of excellence. Its products are considered the best keyboard instruments for training students and are the choice of 90 percent of the world’s performing concert pianists. UWF is one of only two schools in Florida that have obtained the “All-Steinway School” designation.

“As a student pianist, I feel very privileged to be part of an All-Steinway School,” said Kwon. “Now that I am provided with such excellent pianos to practice, I feel compelled to strive for excellence.”

Kwon loves to play all kinds of music and says she has trouble choosing her favorite piece. Right now, her favorite composers include Bach, Brahms, Rachmaninoff, Dvorak, Debussy and Gershwin.

Kwon plans to continue her education through graduate school and one day become a professional performer.

UWF is Creating Great Futures – Want to help? Click here to make a gift. For more information on the UWF Music program, visit uwf.edu/music.

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