Instrument/Department: Flute, Chamber Music Connection
Joined Hochstein faculty in: 2024
Elise Kim is a national competition winner and orchestral musician currently performing with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra as third flute/ piccolo. She has performed in orchestras around the country including Buffalo Philharmonic, Spoleto Festival Orchestra (USA), Aspen Music Festival Orchestras, Colorado College Summer Music Festival, and New York String Orchestras.
Elise has been a featured soloist with the Eastern Music Festival, UW Symphony, Sewanee Musical Festival Orchestras, and Philharmonia Northwest. Additionally, she is a prizewinner of the National Flute Association Young Artist and Masterclass, New Jersey Flute Society Young Artist, and the Central Ohio Flute Society Collegiate Competitions. She is also a three-time prizewinner of the Music Teacher National Association Woodwind Competitions which took her to New York City, Las Vegas, and Anaheim.
Elise completed her studies with Bonita Boyd at the Eastman School of Music (Master of Music, Performer’s Certificate) and Donna Shin at the University of Washington (Bachelor of Music).
More About Elise Kim
Hometown: Seattle, Washington
What inspires me: Making music with my friends, colleagues, and students — I can always learn something new!
Why the arts matter: Arts are ingrained in every part of society, whether people stop to acknowledge it or not — it’s an integral part of what keeps our souls fulfilled.
Favorite things to do in Rochester area: I love to find new running routes in different parts of the city and (when I’m not practicing) climb at Central Rock Gym!
When I’m not at Hochstein, you can find me: Exploring the outdoors – skiing, climbing, and backpacking.
My favorite local restaurant: Vern’s
Favorite place to travel: Anywhere that has mountains!
Favorite movie: I love watching Studio Ghibli films! The soundtracks and visuals are always so beautiful.
What people would be surprised to know about me: I thought I was going to become a dentist when I first went to college. While taking STEM classes and working in a dental office (cleaning and flossing other peoples’ teeth!) while pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Flute Performance, I ultimately chose music because I wanted to continue learning and making music in this creative field – a choice I haven’t regretted to this day!