Today we’d like to introduce you to Rin Seo.
Hi Rin, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your back story.
I was born and raised in South Korea. I received formal training in classical piano from the age of six and ventured into music composition at the age of 17. While pursuing studies in classical composition at a university in Korea, my interest in jazz harmony and improvisation grew.
Driven by a curiosity to expand my musical horizons and explore my sonic palette, I decided to relocate to the United States for advanced studies in jazz piano and composition at the esteemed Berklee College of Music. Following the completion of a rigorous three-year program at Berklee, I relocated to New York City to further enhance my expertise. There, I pursued a master’s degree in jazz composition at the Manhattan School of Music, adding depth to my understanding of the intricacies of the genre.
Presently, I contribute to the realm of music as a professional musician based in New York City. My commitment to continuous artistic exploration and the discovery of my unique musical voice propels me to create compositions that resonate within the dynamic landscape of the city.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Living alone in a foreign country can be a formidable challenge. Adjusting to a new environment, starkly different from the familiar surroundings of my first two decades, poses its own set of obstacles. As a female Asian musician, there are moments when I sense an invisible barrier, a proverbial glass ceiling that only we seem to perceive, limiting the opportunities available to me.
However, residing in the pulsating heart of the music world, New York, the jazz capital, is a constant source of inspiration. Despite occasional feelings of isolation, I consider myself fortunate to have my music as a steadfast companion. The city’s vibrant music scene provides an invaluable backdrop to my artistic journey.
In this journey, I am grateful for the camaraderie of friends and colleagues who share an understanding of my passion and dedication to music. Overcoming the solitude that sometimes envelops me becomes a profound source of inspiration, shaping the very essence of my compositions.
Nostalgia for my homeland and family serves as a muse, prompting me to infuse elements of Korean music into my jazz pieces. These experiences, challenging as they may be, contribute to my resilience and fortify my presence in the competitive field. Standing amidst the dynamic currents of the industry, I continue to forge ahead, my strength fortified by the fusion of cultures and the power of music.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a multifaceted artist, serving as a composer, pianist, conductor, and the leader of the “Rin Seo Collective,” my distinctive 14-piece chamber jazz ensemble. Growing up amidst a rich musical tapestry that encompassed Western classical, jazz, theater, and Korean traditional music, I have seamlessly woven these diverse sonic idioms into my compositions, transcending traditional genre boundaries to create a musical landscape I term “hybridizing music.”
To me, music is not just a form of artistic expression; it is a powerful medium of communication. Through my compositions, I articulate my emotions, thoughts, and opinions, often addressing pertinent issues within our political, economic, and social systems. One such composition is “Minor Feelings,” inspired by Cathy Park Hong’s book of the same title. This piece delves into the emotional experiences of marginalized minority groups in the United States, rooted in the enduring history of systemic racism and economic discrimination.
Another significant work is my orchestral composition, “The Forbidden Fruit,” which serves as a poignant commentary on the environmental crisis spurred by human greed. Through my music, I strive to spark conversations and reflections on pressing societal issues, using the universal language of sound to transcend boundaries and foster understanding.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting.
Life in Korea was relatively easy; obtaining what I desired felt effortless, and challenges were scarce. However, upon relocating to the United States, I initially anticipated a seamless journey, only to discover otherwise. It became apparent that I had nestled comfortably within my familiar zone, and it was time to break free.
Stepping out of my comfort zone led to a series of challenges and failures. The process was undoubtedly painful, and the sting of failure lingered. Yet, with time, I had an epiphany: there is no true failure. Every attempt, every stumble, contributes to personal growth and development. Mistakes, far from being setbacks, are invaluable guides on the path toward our goals.
So, I urge you to venture beyond your comfort zone. Embrace challenges, make mistakes, and most importantly, learn from them. Each misstep is a stepping stone towards becoming a more resilient, knowledgeable, and ultimately, a better person.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.rinseomusic.com
- Instagram: @rinseomusic
- Facebook: @rseo817
- Youtube: @rinseomusic
Image Credits
@Jeremyvisuals and Michael Yu
