Daily Inspiration: Meet Hee Jin Yoon

Today we’d like to introduce you to Hee Jin Yoon.

Hi Hee Jin, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey with the harp began in Seoul, South Korea, where I grew up and received my early musical training. I studied harp at Seoul National University and moved to the United States in 2004 to continue my studies at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music and Indiana University.

Over the years, I have had the opportunity to perform as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral harpist. After settling in Southern California, teaching became an increasingly meaningful part of my musical life. Working closely with young musicians made me realize how important it is for students to have opportunities beyond private lessons—to perform, collaborate, and feel part of a musical community.

That inspired me to start the California Young Harp Ensemble and later establish the Orange County Youth Music Foundation (OCYMF). Today, I continue to perform and teach while creating opportunities for young musicians to grow through music. It wasn’t something I planned from the beginning—it developed very organically, one student and one project at a time.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not always been a smooth road. One of the biggest challenges has been balancing my work as a performer and teacher while building a youth music organization. There are many things behind the scenes, such as finding rehearsal and performance spaces, organizing programs, communicating with families, and creating opportunities for students. Especially in the beginning, there were many things I had to learn along the way.

Another challenge has been growing the organization while keeping the personal connection with the students. It is important to me that each student feels supported and has a positive experience.

Of course, there are always challenges, but seeing the students grow, gain confidence, and enjoy making music together makes all the work worthwhile. It also reminds me why I wanted to start this in the first place.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a harpist and educator based in Southern California. I perform as a solo, chamber, and orchestral musician, and I also maintain a private harp studio. A large part of my work is teaching and mentoring young harpists, from developing strong fundamentals to helping them prepare for performances, auditions, and competitions.

I am also the Founder and Executive Director of the Orange County Youth Music Foundation and the founder of the California Young Harp Ensemble. Through these programs, I try to create opportunities for young musicians to perform, collaborate, and connect with other students.

What I am most proud of is seeing my students grow over the years, not only as musicians but also in confidence and independence. I think my experience as both a performer and teacher allows me to bring a practical and personal approach to music education. For me, it is not only about playing the harp well, but also about helping students find their own connection to music and enjoy sharing it with others.

What do you like and dislike about the city?
What I like best about Southern California is the diversity and the energy of the community. There are so many different cultures, people, and opportunities, especially in the arts. I also love the weather and being able to enjoy outdoor activities almost year-round.

What I like least is probably the traffic! Living and working between Orange County and Los Angeles sometimes means spending a lot of time on the road, but I think that is something most people here can relate to.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.heejinyoon.com