The Musicians
Jin-Won Kim Pena (Cello)
Member of the JSO: Since 2002
Hometown: Seoul, Korea
Education: Bachelor of Music from Columbus State University; Graduate studies at Hart Music School and Florida State University.
Why the cello? “When I was in fourth grade, my father brought home a cello. He saw his best friend's daughter play cello and liked it very much so he wanted me to play, too. I loved the deep sound of the cello, but it didn't sound so deep when I first made sound on the instrument. I started with private lessons and also played with the Korean Youth Orchestra until high school.”
Performance experience: Jin has performed as soloist with Savannah Symphony and Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra and has participated at the Brevard and Blossom Music Festivals. She plays in ensembles with JSO members around town and out of town while balancing a small studio at home.
Other instruments played: Piano
Family: Jin is married to Jorge Pena, violist for the JSO and they are blessed with three daughters Ines, Gaby and Elisa.
Pets: “Hunter, our son… I mean, dog.”
Favorite moment with the JSO: “My favorite time was when we played with Gil Shaham. He was awesome and so inspiring and a nice person, too!”
Favorite composers: “Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms and Mahler (...and Beatles...). It's hard to pick one since they are so different.”
Hobbies, interests: “I like decorating our home with things I find from garage sales to flea markets to thrift shops. I change furniture around so much I can say that that's my hobby. I love going to the beach and playing chamber music because somehow they both relax me.”