We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Sky Lee a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Sky thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Have you been able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen? Was it like that from day one? If not, what were some of the major steps and milestones and do you think you could have sped up the process somehow knowing what you know now?

I have accompanied voices and instruments on piano since a young age, but I never had a strong conviction, and I wasn’t sure if it would become the career of my life. I pursued my undergraduate and graduate studies in solo piano performance like other piano majors who love music and piano. However, after completing my master’s degree in solo piano performance, and working as a freelance collaborative pianist for six years, I gradually became more certain. I not only prefer but excel in collaborative work more than solo performance. Whether performing with vocals, instrumentalists, or participating in ensemble works, I found a unique satisfaction in the synergy created through shared musical expression. So, I decided to return to graduate school to study collaborative. The dynamic interplay with fellow musicians allowed me to explore a diverse range of genres and styles, contributing to my growth as an artist. Through these various experiences and the network expanded with people I worked with, more opportunities came to me. With dedication to giving my best in every performance, regardless of its scale, now I am working as a staff pianist/vocal coach at three different music schools. Also, I am involved in accompanying choirs and often invited to competitions and auditions to play for auditionee. Balancing these responsibilities, I often find myself working tirelessly, realizing that 24 hours a day is not enough. Nonetheless, my passion for music and the satisfaction it brings make every effort worthwhile, and I am grateful that I am able to make a living doing what I love.

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 am Sky Haneul Lee, pianist and vocal coach residing in Los Angeles with family. I was born and raised in South Korea until my college year and later moved to the United States. Increasingly sought-after as a musical partner, I am building a reputation as one of the most versatile and active collaborators in a wide range of opera, vocal, choral, orchestral, and instrumental music in the southern California area.

Currently, I mainly work as a Staff Pianist at USC Thornton School of Music, UCLA Opera, and as a Staff Accompanist/Vocal Coach at Santa Monica College Opera Theatre.

Non-musician people may not be familiar with what a music school staff pianist does or if such a profession even exists, but I play a crucial role in important classes, auditions, performances and masterclasses at the music school, requiring more experience and refined skills than the students. I perform in various settings where my expertise is needed. I also serve as a vocal coach helping singers with their musical direction, language, and other aspects that contribute to creating a polished and solid vocal performance.

To build up to this point in my career, I did my undergraduate studies in Korea, then I earned a Master of Music in Solo Piano performance from Indiana University Jacobs School of Music and studied Keyboard Collaborative Arts at the University of Southern California Thornton School of Music. Through my passion for opera and vocal music, I have had the privilege to work with esteemed organizations; Long Beach Opera, Aspen Music Festival and School, Indianapolis Opera, Pittsburgh Festival Opera, Musiktheater Bavaria in Germany, USC Thornton Opera, Opera UCLA, Long Beach Camerata Singers, Queens College Opera at The City University of New York and the Gilbert and Sullivan Light Opera Company of Long Island. These trainings and collaborations have enriched my understanding of opera and vocal music, allowing me to contribute to a wide range of musical endeavors.

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

Entering the field of collaborative piano and opera at a later age than typical opera pianists, I discovered a newfound attraction to the genre as I resumed my studies in collaborative piano. To receive more training and immerse myself further in opera, I participated in summer music festivals and young artist programs. A Young Artist Program is a specialized program offered by professional opera companies for music majors aspiring to become opera singers, coaches, or directors. Participants reside on-site, receiving regular lessons and coaching. Coaches have the opportunity to work with fellow singers, and there are various performance opportunities. Singers have the chance to take on smaller roles in productions, gaining valuable experiences and exposure in a professional opera setting. However, the age limit and lack of experience posed my challenge. Moreover, with a little daughter (Aria, she is a first grader now) and a family to consider, leaving home for periods ranging from two to six months was not an easy decision. Reflecting on my journey, there is a sense of regret for not discovering and experiencing these training opportunities earlier in life, much like some of my younger music friends. Yet, I find solace in the fact that the passion for what I love and excel at has led me to purse these experiences, even if they came a bit later in life. The challenges and sacrifices are real, but the rewards and personal growth have been invaluable.

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

As a performer, the excitement I feel when performing with collaborators is the most rewarding and unparalleled. There is a unique energy in the collaborative process, an interplay of creativity and shared passion that elevates the performance to new heights. It is a harmonious dialogue where individual expressions blend seamlessly, creating a musical tapestry that goes beyond what any one person could achieve alone. The shared enthusiasm, the mutual respect, and the joy of creating something together amplify the thrill of the performance. The experience is not only about the notes on the sheet music but also about the shared moments of inspiration, the spontaneity, countless moments of individual struggles, and the mutual discovery of the music’s depth. When I see that our music touches audiences hearts, it is even more exhilarating and truly beyond words.

As a vocal coach and musical partner, witnessing the remarkable performances of students and collaborators whom I have guided and coached is profoundly rewarding as well. There is a special sense of fulfillment and pride that comes from seeing their growth, both artistically and personally, as they bring their skills to the stage. The joy is particularly when these dedicated artists achieve success in competitions or auditions. Knowing that I played a part in their journey and contributed to their ability to shine in such competitive settings is immensely gratifying. Seeing the fruits of their hard work, dedication, and the guidance provided during time with me is a source of immense satisfaction.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.pianistskylee.com
• Instagram: ms.sky11
• Facebook: Sky Haneul Lee