JUNG
musical expression through her masterful fusion of classical and jazz. Her compositions are intricate
and dynamic, seamlessly blending the structural depth of classical music with the improvisational
freedom of jazz. Recognized by the Ravinia Festival, Bridges International Composer’s Competition,
and the ASCAP Herb Alpert Composer’s Award, Jisu has established herself as one of the
most compelling artists of her generation.
Jisu’s distinctive compositional voice is rooted in her extensive musical training. She studied
classical piano at the highest level in Korea before receiving an invitation from Arkadi Zenziper to
attend the Hochschule für Musik Dresden in Germany. While building a successful career as a classical
pianist, she was drawn to composition and the boundless nature of jazz, leading her to the United States
to further her studies. Her music quickly gained recognition, earning prestigious awards and invitations to
perform at major festivals, solidifying her status as a rising force in both performance and composition.
Her latest album, Baroque in Blue, showcases her signature integration of classical and jazz influences.
The album weaves together the spirit of Baroque music with the soul of jazz, striking a delicate balance
between precision and spontaneity. It is both structured and improvisatory, disciplined yet free,
embodying the tension and harmony between two musical worlds. Featuring an ensemble that
bridges classical and jazz traditions, Baroque in Blue offers a fresh and immersive listening experience,
achieving a seamless fusion of form and freedom.
This album follows her debut release, Who Am I, which introduced her vision through a distinctive
nine-piece ensemble. The project highlighted the intricate textures of classical composition alongside
the improvisational nature of jazz. It featured her original works, including Moment to Journey,
which won the Bridges International Composer’s Competition. The album received praise from
jazz luminaries such as Rufus Reid, Steve Wilson, and Fabian Almazan, solidifying her reputation
as both a composer and performer.
Jisu has captivated audiences worldwide, performing at the Ravinia Festival and National Sawdust
in the United States, Jarasum Jazz Festival in Korea, Orford Musique in Canada, as well in Japan
and Taiwan. With a deep musical foundation and a bold artistic vision, she continues to push
the boundaries of genre, crafting a unique sound that resonates across cultures and generations.