We recently connected with Connie Kim-sheng Fried and have shared our conversation below.

Connie, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

Launching our music school, Fried Music, was a huge risk and undertaking. My husband, Ben, and I are classically trained musicians who were already running successful private studios out of our home. So to take on additional expenses, the unpredictability and pressures of building a business was definitely a risky decision, but it was the best one we have ever made. Our passion for creating something meaningful outweighed the practicality of staying comfortable. We realized our students needed something much more substantial and inspiring.

As teachers—and as musicians who had once faced the same struggles—we knew how challenging it is to motivate kids to practice. We believe that one of the greatest ways to overcome that hurdle is to build an environment that would inspire them. And thus, Fried Music was born. At the same time, we launched its full-scholarship Pre-College Program, which is a weekly Saturday program designed to cultivate students’ musicianship through practice, performance classes, concerts, and ensemble playing.

The results have been extraordinary. Many of our students, who had never considered music seriously, discovered their own potential and the thrill of performing as musicians. Their repertoire, once consisting of small pieces for children, is now full of etudes and sonatas by Chopin, Liszt, and Rachmaninoff. I firmly believe that 100% of them would not be at their current level without the support of their peers, colleagues, and our faculty, who inspire them every time they step into the school. Taking this risk not only transformed our students’ lives but also reaffirmed our belief in the power of community and collaboration. It was, without question, worth it.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’ve been playing the piano for as long as I can remember. At 33 years old, I’ve already spent the past 30 years immersed in music, which is far longer than most of my students have been alive! My journey began with my mother, who taught me piano from the age of 3 to 11. Under her guidance, I developed a strong foundation and a kinship to making music. At 11, I began studying with renowned pedagogue John Perry, who opened the door to a world of “serious” musicians and introduced me to summer opportunities like Morningside Music Bridge. Every summer, from twelve years old to my twenties I traveled the world to attend music programs, gaining invaluable experience and exposure.

I’m proud of my background, though it wasn’t always easy. When I was attending regular school, I managed three to four hours daily, but after learning that other musicians my age were practicing 10 to 12 hours a day, my mother decided I needed to compete with that mindset. We then decided to homeschool in my last few years of high school while I practiced eight hours a day. It was challenging and I wasn’t always totally productive, but it built the technique and resilience that I now deeply appreciate.

As a teacher, I strive to impart the wisdom I’ve gained from decades of experience. I teach my students not only how to practice but also how to listen and develop their technique, artistry, and understanding of music. My goal is to help each student become the best musician they can be, whether or not they plan to pursue music professionally.

In 2022, my husband Ben and I launched Fried Music, our music school and creative space. Our mission is to help every student who walks through our doors discover their true potential through the warmth of our musical community. We offer ensemble playing, theory lessons, performance classes, and structured practice programs to create a motivated and inspiring environment. These programs are designed to propel students forward technically and proficiently, while still developing a deep love of making beautiful music. It is truly moving to watch these kids blossom into the musicians they are.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

I had to unlearn is that there’s only one “right” way to approach music seriously. Growing up, I was always very serious about piano, so I knew what it took to excel: hours and hours of practice, a deep understanding of the piece, the composer, the theory behind its structure, and the historical and emotional context. It meant controlling the sound and tone of the instrument, mastering performance and memorization, and learning how to convey character. It’s all incredibly difficult and demanding, and I used to believe that if someone didn’t start early, didn’t have access to formal training, or wasn’t immersed in music from a young age, they couldn’t possibly be serious about it.

My students proved me wrong. Over the years, I’ve worked with young people who didn’t have the advantages I did. Students who started “late,” who lacked early formal training, or who had to overcome significant obstacles have shown me that passion, resilience, and love for music can conquer so much. They’ve shown me that it’s never too late to pursue something wholeheartedly.

Ambition, dedication, and resilience can make the impossible possible, and I now approach every student with the belief that they can achieve incredible things, no matter their starting point. It’s a humbling and inspiring lesson that I carry with me every day.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

I love sharing my music through the voices of composers like Beethoven, Brahms, Chopin, Debussy, Ravel, and so many others. It’s one of the most heart-wrenching and profoundly human experiences I can have. Life is complex, and its complexity is part of its beauty. How else can we express the multifaceted subtleties of our emotions and thoughts without art? Without art, we cannot be so honest.

I love playing the piano because it’s both an expressive outlet and a way for me to truly be myself. Sharing that with others—whether through my performances, my teaching, or the creative community we’re building at Fried Music—is my calling; I feel at home when I am expressing through art.

At Fried Music, we’ve also created a space where art in all its forms can thrive. Our new shop, cozily designed in the entrance area of our music school, supports independent artists who craft one-of-a-kind items, and I’m so proud to champion their work alongside the music we teach and share. It is an honor to be able to build this kind of community, where different forms of artistry and creativity are celebrated.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.friedmusic.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fried.music/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FriedMusic/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Fried_Music
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/shopatfm/

Image Credits

Elizabeth Asher Photography
12/34 LAB