ABOUT Jason

Korean-American pianist & multimedia freelancer JASON LEE brings a unique blend of raw musicality and exceptional versatility to audiences in the United States and beyond. Throughout his ongoing 18 year musical journey, Jason has performed, competed, and shared music with audiences across the world, landing in prestigious venues such as New York’s Carnegie Hall, Chicago’s Symphony Center, and historic concert venues in Italy. Making his radio debut at the age of 9 on Chicago’s WFMT, Jason has carried his musical success all throughout college and beyond, recently winning the 2023 Thursday Musical Scholarship Competition, claiming 2nd Prize at the 2023 Chicago International Piano Competition, and earning the Iowa State Representative in the 2021 MTNA Piano Competition.

Jason is a proud graduate and B.A. Graeber Scholar of the University of Iowa School of Music, earning his B.M. in Piano Performance under the tutelage of Dr. Rene Lecuona. His time at Iowa provided unparalleled access to exceptional musical experience. Jason is a 3-time performer at the University of Iowa Key Change Piano Festivals. He has been featured on numerous occasions of Piano Sundays in partnership with the Old Capitol Museum in Iowa City. In addition, Jason has had the opportunity to give 4 solo piano recitals, more than fifteen chamber music recitals, and be selected for numerous masterclasses with prestigious visiting artists during his time at Iowa. Apart from classical piano, Jason also served as the pianist for the Jazz Repertory Ensemble, under the direction of Grammy-Award winning trumpeter, Curtis Taylor, and most recently held the chair of pianist for the Black Pop Music Ensemble, led by renowned jazz pianist Dr. William Menefield. Furthermore, Jason served as a private piano instructor through the Iowa Community Music School, a staff accompanist for the University of Iowa Dance Department, and a House Manager for the School of Music concerts. Whether on stage or backstage, Jason found every way to get involved with music during his 4 years at Iowa.

In addition to his musical side, Jason is a self-taught photographer and videographer, where he has 8+ years of experience photographing clients, and providing videography service to customers and businesses. What was once a hobby has become a full-on side business, and Jason continues to dive deeper into the world of visual arts each year.

Jason now resides in the Chicagoland area, where he has built prominent and strong connections with music businesses and individuals in the bustling downtown music scene. Jason also is a partner and artist with the beautiful, modern downtown venue Epiphany Center For the Arts. In his time away from the piano and camera, he greatly enjoys sports, golf, and hanging out with his dog, Simba.