Insun Lee

Education

MM, The Hartt School, University of Hartford

BA, Magna Cum Laude, Montana State University–Billings

Insun Lee is a dedicated piano educator whose work reflects a long-standing commitment to artistic excellence, thoughtful pedagogy, and student-centered instruction. She holds a Master of Music from The Hartt School, and a Bachelor of Arts, Magna Cum Laude, from Montana State University–Billings. Guided by mentors Dorothea Cromley and David Westfall, she has received numerous honors, including first place in the MSMTA/MTNA Collegiate Piano Competition as well as multiple scholarships recognizing both academic and artistic excellence.

Insun began teaching early in her academic career, balancing instructional roles with full-time studies. In 2008, she founded Lee Piano Studio, which she directed until 2023. Her students performed regularly in studio recitals, and several students were selected for CSMTA/MTNA- sponsored Youth Recitals. Among them, some earned awards in the Select Student Competition and the Audrey Thayer Piano Competition. Prior to founding her studio, she taught at various music academies and independent programs in both South Korea and the United States.

Beyond her studio work, Insun has served as an accompanist, choir leader, and adjudicator for events including the Great Falls Music Festival. She is an active member of the Connecticut State Music Teachers Association and the Hartford Music Teachers Alliance.

Teaching Philosophy

I believe every student brings something unique to the piano. My role as a teacher is to meet each student where they are and guide them toward the pianist they aspire to become. Whether they are preparing for a competition or playing for personal joy, I aim to nurture both technical growth and a meaningful emotional connection to the music.

Many of my adult students have told me, “You’re different,” a reflection of the teaching style I have developed over decades. That difference traces back to my life-changing mentor, Dorothea Cromley, whose enthusiasm for music and dedication to her students opened a new world for me. Under her guidance, I fell in love with music and discovered its power to shape a life. Her constant reminders— “Sing the melody, play from your heart, and drill!”—still echo in my studio today. I remember once rushing through a passage in practice room, only to hear her firm reminder from the doorway not to hurry. She became my role model, and I have carried her spirit into every lesson I teach.

During my graduate studies, I was also fortunate to study with David Westfall, whose technical insight and clarity transformed my playing. His approach made complex passages feel natural and manageable, and his influence continues to shape how I help students build ease and confidence at the keyboard.

I strive to create a warm, student-centered environment where curiosity is encouraged, mistakes are viewed as part of the learning process, and progress is celebrated. Music is a lifelong companion, and I feel honored to walk alongside each student as they discover their own voice at the piano.